Overview

Painting is a visual art form that involves the application of pigment to a surface, usually with brushes, knives, sponges, or fingers. It is an extremely ancient form of expression, dating back from cave paintings, which then developed into many styles and several techniques through history until today. Paintings can fulfill a number of purposes: decoration, religious or cultural storytelling, personal expression, or even political and social comment. It is both a rich historical tradition and a contemporary relevance that goes on to inspire and challenge artists around the world today.

The two-year postgraduate course in Painting, spread over four semesters, aims at developing both theoretical understanding of painting and its practical skills. It would enable intensive study of various techniques in painting, the history of art, aesthetics, and contemporary practices. The students will pursue in-depth study of traditional and modern forms in painting, art theory, and criticism through their creative expression via studio practice.

Course Objectives

MA in Painting provides deep understanding in visual arts while developing their uniqueness in creativity. Students will be encouraged and supported to work both in traditional practices of painting and in exploring contemporary approaches to the medium. These technical skills of painting will be developed through the study of art history and theory informed by critical engagement. This postgraduate course equips students with knowledge and ability to express themselves artistically; it further develops critical and research skills.

This will include students working on independent projects and compilation of a portfolio with exhibitions. By the end of the course, students will have explored a range of painting styles, techniques, and historical contexts that prepare professional careers within the visual arts.

Course Curriculum

Master of Arts course in Painting is diverse and rich, with creativity and sharpening of analytical abilities running concurrently. Subjects to be covered at core level include:

Semester I

1. History of Art (Indian and Western Traditions)
2. Fundamentals of Drawing and Painting
3. Traditional and Modern Painting Techniques
4. Aesthetics and Art Criticism
    

Semester II

1. Exploration of Mediums: Oil, Watercolor, Acrylic, and Mixed Media
2. Contemporary Art Practices
3. Visual Communication and Semiotics
4. Art Pedagogy: Teaching Methods and Techniques
    

Semester III

1. Advanced Composition and Creative Process
2. Art in the Digital Age: New Media and Digital Art
3. Art Therapy and Healing through Art
4. Art Research Methods and Fieldwork
    

Semester IV

1. Advanced Studio Practice and Exhibition Preparation
2. Art Conservation and Cultural Heritage Management
3. Art Criticism and Review Writing
4. Dissertation/Research Project
    

Career Opportunities

A Master of Arts in Painting prepares the graduate for a bouquet of careers in the art world. Some of these careers include:

1. Professional Artist
2. Art Teacher or Lecturer
3. Art Critic or Writer
4. Art Conservator
5. Art Curator
6. Illustrator
7. Gallery Manager
8. Art Therapist
9. Art Historian or Researcher
10. Cultural Event Organizer