Thesis and Exhibition Preparation

4 units

This seminar supports second-year MFA-VA candidates in the process of completing their MFA thesis. The seminar functions as both a practical and professionalizing experience. It provides tools for negotiating conceptual and practical matters related to the thesis exhibition, facilitates the process of writing the thesis text, and prepares candidates for their thesis artist talks. Weekly sessions focus on developing the means for MFA-VA candidates to successfully find a visual and writing voice that best represents their art practice. Students learn to navigate aspects of professional art exhibitions by working with institutions such as the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum. Visits from Kemper Museum curators introduce students to key issues in preparing for museum exhibitions, including studio visits, selecting works, developing wall text, and installation logistics.