ART 231 - ART SEMINAR (Go to ART 231 Syllabus)

I have taught this course for eight years. I have developed a number of handouts and readings that I feel help provide the student with skills needed to find a job in the art field, prepare a portfolio and the development of presenting these artistic qualities. These students present two portfolios, which they have developed in this class, to the members of the class.I stress the idea of presentation, expecting the work to look very polished and their presentations to be professional. I also include two new sections on Grant Writing and Art Competition.

Through handouts and books, I furnish, students are made aware of the number of grants and competitions available to artists and art students. I have included a section on Health and Safety for Artists, which is a vital concern for all artists working in the field today. The students are asked to research on an art career and articles from trade magazines written about artists and art making. They are asked to a write paper on each of these areas and give a 5-minute report on their findings on each of these subjects. I feel that this is a much-needed requirement in as that our art students do not have many opportunities to present themselves to groups. This provides another opportunity for them to work on these skills.

Presenting themselves and talking before groups one of the areas this group can improve on. Many artists lack the skills and abilities to talk about their art and the importance of art making in our society. I arrange to have area artists, and arts professionals (2 per semester) come to class as guest lecturers to talk about their experiences and their work. I arrange at least one field trip to such places as Memorial Art Gallery, Strong Museum and local artists studios (Fabrics and Findings Bldg) I am currently using the book entitled The Practical Handbook for Emerging Artists by Lazzari. This book works very closely with my syllabus and handouts. It is one that the students can refer to for many years after MCC and help them with the many aspects of life as an artist.

Art Seminar Summary - Art 231

  • Slide Presentation- Slide in Carousel, Presentation with slide sheets to all members of group you are presenting work to.
  • Resume, Cover letter, Artist Statement - typed on computer, design is of the utmost importance in this project
  • Life Plan
  • Portfolios - two types * A bonus for CD ROM Presentation

#1 Small Mailer Portfolio - Should include Slides with slide information sheet include resumes, artist statement, certificates, letters of recommendations, articles. This portfolio is a smaller presentation document. This could be a 3 ring notebook or the vinyl type with handle no larger than 20 x 20 inches.

#2 Larger portfolio vinyl type with handles. This can be the type with vinyl sleeves for 2 dimensional work. Should include original art work two dimensional drawings, illustrations, photographs etc. Those items that will fit in your portfolio without bulging the case.

These portfolios are to be presented to all member of the class at designated date.

  • One Page Papers with Presentations - All papers have to be typed on a computer

    #1. One page paper on a visit to a gallery, museum, or some art event (ex. Dance or Theatrical Performance) o A 5 minute presentation

    #2 One page paper -Report on Article or Art Review from Major Art, Photography or Design Magazine ex. Art News, Art in America, etc.)
    o A 5 minute Presentation on your findings

    #3 Career Research Paper and 5 minute presentation

    #4. Volunteer or internship experience at an art gallery, theater, arts council or some other organization to gain some type of experience in your chosen field. 10hours per semester . Be prepared to talk about this experience.

  • This can be replace if you have had if you are involved in an art exhibition displaying your work. This must be documented through development of a postcard, announcement, press release, a photographic documentation (slides or photos). Be prepared to talk about this experience.


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