Program Overview
Hartford Art School's Printmaking program equips students with technical proficiency in various printmaking techniques, critical thinking skills, and a strong foundation in drawing and composition. The program emphasizes individual mentorship, studio-based learning, and opportunities for collaboration with renowned artists, preparing graduates for careers as practicing print artists, educators, and professionals in related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Hartford Art School's Printmaking program
aims to equip students with the technical and aesthetic skills, as well as critical-thinking abilities, essential for a successful career as a print artist. The program emphasizes expanding drawing and compositional skills, alongside mastery of printmaking techniques.
Objectives:
- Develop technical proficiency in various printmaking techniques including lithography, etching, relief printing, monotype, letterpress printing, and book arts.
- Nurture critical thinking skills for artistic expression and conceptual development.
- Cultivate a strong foundation in drawing and composition as the basis for printmaking.
- Prepare students for graduate studies or entry into professional printmaking and art careers.
Description:
The program begins with a foundation year, followed by a series of independent studios and intensive printmaking experiences. Students gain mastery in both lithography and etching, while exploring diverse black-and-white and color processes across different media. The curriculum encourages exploration of other printmaking areas like relief printing, monotype, letterpress printing, and book arts. The culminating senior exhibition serves as a platform for showcasing individual artistic development and prepares graduates for the next phase of their creative journey.
Outline:
The Printmaking program at Hartford Art School encompasses studio and academic credits:
Studio Credits (77-80):
- Core Classes:
- Lithography I & II
- Etching I & II
- Printmaking Studio I & II
- Electives (choose 3):
- Relief Printing I & II
- Monotype I & II
- Independent I & II
- Special Topics (2 courses)
Academic Credits (45-46):
- Foundation year courses (20 credits)
- Drawing I Figure & Drawing II (6 credits)
- Introduction to Painting (3 credits)
- Art History (12 credits)
- All University Curriculum (12-13 credits)
- Writing courses (WRT 110 & 111) (6 credits)
- Mathematics (3 credits)
Structure:
- The program follows a progressive structure, advancing from foundational studies through independent studio practice.
- Students dedicate themselves to individual studio space with intensive printmaking sessions.
- Flexibility exists to explore diverse areas within printmaking, tailoring the learning experience to individual interests.
Assessment:
Assessment methods
- Critiques: Regular individual and group critiques provide constructive feedback from professors and peers.
- Exhibitions: Senior exhibition serves as a culminating assessment showcasing artistic development.
- Coursework: Assignments and projects contribute to overall evaluation of understanding and progress.
Assessment criteria
- Technical skill and proficiency in chosen printmaking techniques.
- Conceptual understanding and artistic expression.
- Development of individual artistic voice and style.
- Ability to critically analyze and engage with contemporary printmaking discourse.
Teaching:
Teaching methods
- Emphasis on individual mentorship and guidance through dedicated faculty attention.
- Studio-based learning with hands-on practice and experimentation.
- Lectures and demonstrations enhance theoretical understanding and exposure to diverse approaches.
- Visiting artists and master printers workshops enrich the learning experience with practical insights.
Faculty
- Experienced and recognized professional artists who actively exhibit and contribute to the field.
- Dedicated to providing personalized guidance and mentorship to students.
- Committed to fostering a supportive and stimulating learning environment.
Unique approaches
- The Annual Hartford Print Workshop brings renowned artists to collaborate with students and master printers, resulting in unique collaborative prints housed in the Helen S. Kaman Print Study Center.
- Individualized attention ensures students receive tailored guidance and support for their artistic development.
Careers:
Career paths
- Gallery artist
- Printmaking studio owner/operator
- Printmaking instructor/professor
- Arts administrator
- Museum curator
- Book artist
- Graphic designer
- Illustrator
Opportunities
- Building a career as a practicing print artist.
- Securing positions in museums, galleries, studios, and educational institutions.
- Participating in exhibitions and art fairs.
- Networking with professionals in the art world.
Outcomes
- Graduates are prepared with the skills and knowledge to pursue diverse career paths in the arts.
- Many alumni gain recognition as successful practicing artists, educators, and professionals in related fields.
Other:
- The program provides a supportive and collaborative learning environment fostering creative exploration and community among students.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources allows students to experiment and refine their craft.
- Opportunities for internships and networking expand professional connections and future career prospects.
- The program actively seeks to connect graduates with opportunities in the larger art community.
