more info on applying/curriculum/facilities/faculty/visiting artists + criticst

>> dm.risd.edu

RISD’s Digital + Media Department attracts a diverse group of talented, intellectually engaged graduate students for interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary exploration in the digital arts. The MFA curriculum enables students to investigate innovative approaches to contemporary theory and practice, and fosters both individual inquiry and high-level collaboration. The primary objective of the program is to prepare creative critical thinkers to become leaders in their fields.

Structured to promote thought and work that crosses traditional lines between disciplines, the Digital + Media curriculum challenges students to consider non-standard approaches to the computer as a creative and expressive medium. Study of technology, art and design is balanced with inquiry grounded in conceptual, critical, social, cultural and historical considerations.

Individual courses of study reflect students’ specific areas of interest. Current research areas in the department include new forms of sensing and physical interface production, experimental games, augmented reality, motion graphics, electronic music and sound arts, hybrid architectural/media environments, experimental industrial design, wearable computing, digitally articulated sculpture and responsive environments. Overall, the program seeks to hybridize, redefine and re-articulate form and meaning in the digital arts. Drawn from many disciplines, the faculty includes top practitioners in the field who also invite visiting artists and lecturers to campus to offer their perspectives on the latest trends in digital media production. In addition to regular coursework, students have an opportunity to gain experience in teaching; assist in faculty research; explore many potential exhibition opportunities; and engage in research and collaboration with other institutions. A major thesis project (either individual or team-based) and a written thesis (including multimedia documentation) form the culminating experience of the MFA program. Students work under the supervision of a faculty advisor and thesis committee, with critique and discussionÑwith mentors, lecturers, external critics, curators and peersÑcontributing valuable elements to the investigative process.

Digital + Media applicants should have the equivalent of four years of digital media-related study: an education in media arts; and/or a combined art/design education. Media computer scientists, electrical engineers and others will be considered where appropriate. Students from non-traditional backgrounds may be required to take supple-mentary courses to complete their preparation. On entry into the program, students should already be well versed in the creative use of digital media. Self-motivated work, the ability to research advanced technological issues independently, and a commitment to pursuing highly original and critical perspectives related to digital produc-tion are pivotal to the successful completion of the program.

A phone interview with the graduate program coordinator is required after the first tier of selection, and can be arranged by contacting the Digital + Media program office. Send an email to digital@risd.edu for further information or call 401 454-6139.

The purchase of a specific “loaded” laptop computer from RISD is required; detailed information will be provided to incoming students. The department offers various departmental assistantships. Specific research-oriented funding is also available on a limited basis.