Introduction: From the Chair


While the language of visual art is constantly changing, The Department of Fine Arts at the University of Pennsylvania is premised on a broad definition of art that encompasses an embrace of multiple traditions and forms of innovation. Motivated and promising artists, working in a range of styles and approaches, immerse themselves in a curriculum that nurtures their technical skills while allowing them the freedom to pursue ideas and develop their personal visions.

Graduate Students in Fine Arts concentrate in the disciplines of Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture and Mixed Media in an environment where they are challenged to consider the wider implications of their work and respond to the constantly expanding requirements and responsibilities of artists. Emphasis is placed on the craft and form of making, supported by a rigorous examination of critical and conceptual issues. Students benefit by spending two years in a cultural environment dedicated to recognizing the diversity and complexity of today’s visual arts world.

Individual studio work is the center of the program of study, and seminars and structured courses serve as a supportive component. Rigorous studio training requires self-discipline and open-mindedness, and students participate in individual critiques, intensive group critiques, and work with visiting critics on contemporary issues. Seminars based on theory or practice are regularly offered on a variety of forms and topics.

Structured courses are offered by the Department in areas including Clay, Collage and Montage, Digital Imaging, Photography, Photojournalism, Printmaking, and Sculpture; elective courses designed for GSFA students in all programs are offered each semester, and include Public Art, Mural Painting, and Landscape Photography; students may also choose electives from among the broad range of offerings in Art History, English, or other departments at Penn.

An extensive visiting artist program brings distinguished artists to campus each semester for slide-lecture presentations and individual studio critiques. All students participate in an intensive three day review conducted by all graduate faculty and senior critics at the end of each semester, and a thesis exhibition for all graduating students is held at the end of the final semester of study.

John Moore
Monroe and Edna Gutman Professor of Fine Arts
Chair, Department of Fine Arts