The Printmaking program builds individual artistic expression by engaging in innovative and traditional technologies of printmaking in an open, creative community, and provides professional training in all fine print media.
Building on the rigorous BFA foundation program, the Printmaking major begins with introductory courses in print media (intaglio, relief, lithography, screen printing, book arts, and digital printmaking) that focus on process and ideas, as well as materials, history, and analysis. The upper-level, advanced practice courses consolidate knowledge and encourage innovation and experimentation, building toward a body of work with an individual voice culminating in the BFA Thesis Exhibition. Students in Printmaking also critique and write about their own and others work and submit a written statement to accompany their exhibition.
A minimum of five major courses in at least three of the print media is required (including a thesis term), as well as a Contemporary Issues Seminar, Painting II, the Art of the Multiple seminar, and at least one additional term of Drawing at an advanced level. Additional studio electives provide versatility, visual fluency, and options in cross-disciplinary study, including two courses in one other major studio discipline and free electives that support in-depth studio practice. Multidisciplinary study is encouraged, and students benefit from a close working relationship with faculty. Students interact with the community in special print projects, attend national conferences that build professional associations, and maintain an active profile as emerging professional artists. They are also encouraged to demonstrate an awareness and respect for diverse personal voices, backgrounds, and visions.
Learning Outcomes
All students graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Printmaking from the Boston University School of Visual Arts are expected to:
Develop, produce, and exhibit a body of work that demonstrates inventiveness, creativity, a unique personal language, ambition, and clarity of thinking.
Demonstrate proficiency in fine art printmaking processes including materials, tools, and techniques appropriate to the practiceincluding mastery of at least one printmaking technique (etching, relief, lithography, monotype, digital, silkscreen, book arts), showing the ability both to experiment with technical innovation and to explore and develop personal concepts and imagery.
Demonstrate spoken and written critical thinking and communication skills.
