Senior Seminars

A distinguishing feature of the Montserrat BFA is the required senior seminar in all concentrations. There are three such Senior Programs: Senior Fine Arts Seminar, Graphic Design Seminar, and Senior Illustration Seminar. While the three senior programs differ in content, they share a similar structure and philosophy. Each is either one to two semesters of independent study; they encourage in-depth exploration of a self-designed topic and the development of a cohesive body of work. The project is guided by a faculty advisor(s) and culminates in a public exhibition, organized by the students in collaboration with the Gallery Director. These seminars require and foster a high degree of self-discipline, seriousness and artistic maturity, intended to help students make the transition into professional life or graduate study. Aspects of Professional Practice are addressed in all the seminars, building on the internship completed in the previous year.

Senior Fine Arts Seminar

Senior Fine Arts Seminar is a six-credit course that meets twice a week for two semesters. The program consists of three components. The first addresses the development of critical awareness through discussions, led by an art historian, of contemporary art and critical theory. The second component involves studio-based group activities and critiques, enhanced by the regular participation of visiting artists, curators and critics. In conjunction with these interactions, each student works closely with a faculty advisor throughout the senior year to develop a coherent body of work, to be presented in a public thesis exhibition in the senior gallery at 301 Cabot. Overall the SFAS successfully integrates studio practice and theory, and fosters self discipline and self reflection in the students. Furthermore, the consistent interaction between the students and visiting artists or scholars provides valuable exposure to “real work” situations and issues related to professional practice.

Admission to the Senior Programs is based upon a formal application and the approval by the respective faculty evaluation panel.

Entrance requirements