Postgraduate Diploma in Māori Visual Arts – PGDipMVA

Program Overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Māori Visual Arts (PGDipMVA) at Massey University is a one-year full-time or four-year part-time program designed for students seeking to enhance their creative practice in Māori visual arts. With a strong studio focus, the program offers a balance of artistic exploration and academic inquiry, allowing students to develop their artistic expression, critical thinking skills, and understanding of Māori and indigenous visual culture. Graduates are prepared for careers in various fields, including studio art, curation, cultural work, and museum studies.

Program Outline

Postgraduate Diploma in Māori Visual Arts (PGDipMVA) - Massey University

Degree Overview:

• Creative balance: Independently explore in the studio while learning about Māori studies or museum studies.
• Strong studio focus: Most of your time will be spent creating artwork.
• Flexible study: On-campus with studio space provision or online.
• Full-time and part-time options: Adaptable to match your work and whānau commitments.
• Suitable for:
• Students with a Bachelor of Māori Visual Arts
• Graduates of relevant bachelor's degrees with sufficient professional experience
• Individuals with significant practical, professional, and scholarly experience

The objectives of the program are to:

• Nurture artistic expression in Māori and indigenous visual culture.
• Develop critical thinking skills in relation to identity and visual culture.
• **Navigate the intersections of "Western" and "indigenous" art.

Outline:

The PGDipMVA is comprised of 120 credits:

• Core courses (120 credits): Choose between two options:
• Advanced Studio Practice (150707):
Individually designed program focused on your strengths and interests.
• Pre-thesis Practicum (150720/25/26): Supervised study leading to a curated body of work and public presentation.
• Possible electives (30 credits): Choose from a variety of relevant courses, including:
• Strategic Māori Development (150701)
• Advanced Māori Literature (150711)
• Māori Research Methodologies (150714)
• Heritage Aotearoa (150715)
• Museum Studies courses:
Collection Management, Museum Management, Museums and the Public.

Assessment:

Assessment methods may vary depending on the chosen courses and could include:

• Individual and group projects
• Essays and written assignments
• Artistic creations
• Portfolios
• Presentations
• Participation in discussions and seminars

Teaching:

The PGDipMVA program utilizes various teaching methods:

• Studio-based learning: Hands-on development of artistic skills and techniques.
• Lectures and seminars: Discussing theoretical concepts and critical approaches.
• Individual and group tutorials: Personalized guidance and interaction with faculty.
• Guest lectures and workshops: Expertise from visiting artists and scholars.

Careers:

The PGDipMVA prepares graduates for various career paths, such as:

• Studio artist
• Curator
• Artist educator
• Cultural worker
• Museum professional
• Artist researcher
• Arts administrator

Other:

• The program welcomes both indigenous and non-indigenous artists.
• Students with more than 10 years of exhibition practice may apply for a studio-only diploma.
• The program embraces both customary and contemporary practices in Māori visual arts.