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Jeff Fuchs · 04-04-2006, 10:22 AM

Apparently I'm the only one who checked "I would reccomend a university or art school path to students". That's strange.

Actually, the question wasn't properly worded, since university art degrees and art schools are very different things, and it should have been two separate items. I have a degree from a university, though I studied graphic design, and had to teach myself basic fine art skills after graduation. I checked this item more for the art school element than the university.

I don't believe that universities are the best venue for artists. Certainly you'll receive a more well rounded education there, and I credit my university for my love of literature, history, etc., but it's no place for serious artists. An aspiring artist should not be concerned about his GPA or how many foreign language credits he needs. He shouldn't be up all night cramming for an algebra exam, with no time to paint. Not to mention, I see very little evidence that universities make an effort to teach real art skills.

One thing I do believe. A formal art education is essential. It's rare that a self-taught artist excells in his field. I consider myself to be self taught, since I didn't take painting classes in college, and you see how much I struggle. Occasionally we get a new SOG member who just finished art school. He'll be young enough to be my child, and he'll have a skill level that I'll never be able to attain. That's a clear indication of the value of an art education. It's tough on your own.

I'll cut this short, since I'm not telling you anything you don't already know, but I say yes to the art school, and no to the university. Of course, I haven't attended an art school, so it's based on incomplete information.

EDIT: Sorry Lacey, I posted this before reading your post, based on the poll results. I'm afraid I can't contribute much for your purposes.

04-04-2006, 10:22 AM	#2
Jeff Fuchs Juried Member Guy who can draw a little Joined: Dec 2002 Location: New Iberia, LA Posts: 546	Apparently I'm the only one who checked "I would reccomend a university or art school path to students". That's strange. Actually, the question wasn't properly worded, since university art degrees and art schools are very different things, and it should have been two separate items. I have a degree from a university, though I studied graphic design, and had to teach myself basic fine art skills after graduation. I checked this item more for the art school element than the university. I don't believe that universities are the best venue for artists. Certainly you'll receive a more well rounded education there, and I credit my university for my love of literature, history, etc., but it's no place for serious artists. An aspiring artist should not be concerned about his GPA or how many foreign language credits he needs. He shouldn't be up all night cramming for an algebra exam, with no time to paint. Not to mention, I see very little evidence that universities make an effort to teach real art skills. One thing I do believe. A formal art education is essential. It's rare that a self-taught artist excells in his field. I consider myself to be self taught, since I didn't take painting classes in college, and you see how much I struggle. Occasionally we get a new SOG member who just finished art school. He'll be young enough to be my child, and he'll have a skill level that I'll never be able to attain. That's a clear indication of the value of an art education. It's tough on your own. I'll cut this short, since I'm not telling you anything you don't already know, but I say yes to the art school, and no to the university. Of course, I haven't attended an art school, so it's based on incomplete information. EDIT: Sorry Lacey, I posted this before reading your post, based on the poll results. I'm afraid I can't contribute much for your purposes.