Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Contemporary Art Practice at Manipal Academy of Higher Education offers an interdisciplinary approach to art education. This comprehensive 48-month program encourages students to explore various media and techniques, helping them cultivate a unique contemporary art practice. Students engage with a range of artistic disciplines, including drawing, painting, textiles, photography, sculpture, digital tools, coding, film, sound, and performance. The program emphasizes critical dialogue, curatorial thinking, and community engagement, equipping graduates with the skills needed to navigate the dynamic art world.

What you'll study

• Disciplinary Studios: Core studio environments facilitate the development of essential skills in contemporary art practice, fostering trans-disciplinary collaboration.
• General Studies: A foundational component that integrates Humanities, Sciences, Mathematics, and business perspectives, alongside policy studies. Language options may be available for students seeking to enhance their communication skills.
• Interim / Immersive Practice: This component introduces students to innovative areas within art and design, providing exposure to contemporary themes and environmental issues.
• Electives: A selection of elective courses allows students to expand their expertise, pursue personal interests, and participate in exchange or travel opportunities when available.

Studio-led learning and capstone outcomes

Throughout the program, students create a diverse portfolio through hands-on projects, critiques, and continuous experimentation. In the final stages, they consolidate their artistic practice with a culminating body of work, complemented by reflective documentation and exhibition or curatorial involvement. The format of the final outcomes may vary by cohort.

For the most current curriculum details, course titles, and program structure, please refer to the program website.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to have successfully completed one of the following educational qualifications:

Indian Boards

• State Board, CBSE, ISC, HSSCC, PUC, Junior College, Intermediate, Senior Secondary, or equivalent from a recognized Board/NSQF Certification Level 4, with a minimum aggregate of 50% marks.

International Boards

• A Levels: Minimum of 3 subjects in A Levels and 5 passes in the IGCSE/GCSE, including English. The average requirement is a 'D' grade or equivalent.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BFA in Contemporary Art Practice are well-prepared for a variety of career paths within the creative industries. They may pursue roles as professional artists, curators, art educators, or in arts administration. The interdisciplinary nature of the program also opens opportunities in fields such as design, media production, and community engagement, allowing graduates to make meaningful contributions to the cultural landscape.