Studio Foundation

Exploration, idea generation, critical thinking, craftsmanship-this is where aspiring artists acquire the tool chest that will drive their artistic development. The Studio Foundation Department introduces students to a wide variety of studio techniques and media that cut across traditions and technologies. Its curriculum is required of all first-year students before they choose a major. Coursework helps students gain an understanding of the critique process on which much of the MassArt curriculum is based. They learn to take their projects through all stages of the creative process, from inception to design construction, presentation, and revision.

Drawing Courses introduce students to formal principles as well as the breadth of drawing practice.

Visual Language Courses explore two- and four-dimensional principles of visual organization, with a combination of tactile and digital media, photography, and video.

Form Study introduces students to the formal and conceptual foundations of three-dimensional design.

The Studio Foundation Department has an active program of visiting artists and exhibitions that brings students into contact with local, national, and international artists and designers. Studio, gallery, and museum visits complement the curriculum.

Studio Foundation Faculty

Nancy Aleo, Professor
BFA, Massachusetts College of Art
MFA, Cranbrook Academy of Art

Sarah Bapst, Professor
BA, Indiana University
MFA, Cranbrook Academy of Art

Jarrett Min Davis, Associate Professor
BFA, University of Dayton
MFA, Maryland Institute College of Art

Taylor Davis, Professor
BS, University of Massachusetts Amherst
MFA, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Joshua Hart, Assistant Professor
BFA, University of California
MFA, Bard College, Milton Avery Graduate School of the Arts

Marc Holland, Associate Professor
BFA, Massachusetts College of Art
MFA, Rutgers University
MFA, Bard College

Jane Marsching, Professor
BA, Hampshire College
MFA, School of the Museum of Fine Arts

Juan Ormaza, Professor
BFA, National School of Art “La Esheralda” Mexico
MFA, Alfred University

Evelyn Rydz, Assistant Professor
BFA, Florida State University
MFA, School of the Museum of Fine Arts

Christopher Sullivan, Assistant Professor
BFA, Massachusetts College of Art and Design
MFA, San Fransisco Art Institute

Amber Tourlentes, Associate Professor
BFA, University of Massachusetts at Amherst
MFA, University of Massachusetts at Amherst

Keith Washington, Associate Professor
BFA, Massachusetts College of Art
MFA, School of the Museum of Fine Arts

Programs

Studio Foundation