Art Practice Portland State University

Overview

The Art Practice programme at Portland State University offers an immersive studio experience that encourages students to develop their own creative vision through diverse artistic processes. This bachelor degree goes beyond traditional making to explore idea generation, contemporary influences, and interdisciplinary methods. Students are challenged to engage with a wide range of materials and tools to prepare for a professional life in the arts.

Why Art Practice at Portland State University?

Students benefit from being situated in the heart of a vibrant urban creative scene, where the university acts as a central hub for innovation. The Schnitzer School of Art + Art History + Design provides access to beautifully renovated studios filled with natural light and views of the Park Blocks. These facilities are designed to inspire and support a rigorous studio practice.

The university offers an impressive array of specialized labs, including a dedicated printmaking facility, a photographic darkroom, and a sewing and fabric construction studio. The weaving studio is particularly notable, featuring both traditional floor looms and modern digital looms. For those interested in digital work, the Mac Lab provides the latest creative software and high-quality printing resources.

The Materials Lab serves as a comprehensive multi-use facility where students can access a woodshop, a metals shop with welding equipment, and a foundry for bronze and aluminum casting. Additionally, the digital fabrication studio is equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, and a CNC router. This extensive technical infrastructure allows students to experiment across various physical and digital mediums under the mentorship of expert faculty.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 34599 per year
• National fee: USD 34599 per year
• Local fee: USD 12999 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum begins with a foundational toolkit designed to foster community and introduce diverse creative approaches. The programme culminates in a year-long thesis project involving a public exhibition and an artist talk. Modules may include:

• Painting
• Drawing
• Printmaking
• Sculpture
• Textiles
• Video
• Photography
• Social Practice
• Art Practice

Careers with Art Practice

Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles within the creative industries, leveraging their skills in visual communication and creative problem-solving. While many continue their studies at the master's level, others enter the workforce directly in diverse professional capacities. Potential career paths include:

• Fine artist
• Art Director
• Illustrator
• Filmmaker
• Photographer
• Exhibition designer
• Art gallery manager
• Arts administration
• Museum technician

The programme's emphasis on contemporary trends and social engagement ensures that graduates are equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of the global art world. By focusing on collaborative experiences and cultural systems, students develop the versatility required for modern creative careers.