Experimental and Foundation Studies (EFS) Division

As the studio curriculum for all first-year undergraduate students at RISD, Experimental and Foundation Studies (EFS) is comprised of three programs of study: Drawing, Design and Spatial Dynamics, each of which meets one full day per week. First-year students are assigned to a section of approximately 20 students who attend the three studio classes together.

EFS faculty emphasize the development of rigorous critical inquiry and motivate students to learn independently. Projects encourage exploration, questioning and risk taking. Critiques at the end of each project encourage students to discuss their intentions and processes, and reflect on the capacity of the work to embody ideas and emotions.

Staff