Contemporary Art (New York) (Taught)

"Focus on art from the 1960s to the present, developing an in-depth understanding of the artists, art movements, theories, and professional practices that define contemporary art.

The MA in Contemporary Art is the longest running specialized Master’s program of its kind in the world. Established in 1991, it focuses on art in the period from 1968 to the present, with strands on art history, curatorial studies, and critical theory, and a strong emphasis throughout on professional career development.

Studies are anchored in the close study of visual art and critical thought, with classroom learning by leading faculty and guest speakers complemented by faculty-led, specially designed visits to New York’s galleries, museums, and artists’ studios and by international Field Study.

Graduates of this program have gone on to work at museums, commercial and not-for-profit galleries, auction houses, consultancies, journals, international art fairs, and universities.

Highlights
Experiential learning Visits and international study trips are significant learning events, with the travel, seeing the art in situ and informal access to tutors serving to intensify the experience.

Personal tutors and individual feedback Students are allocated a personal tutor who engages with their academic and professional progress in one-on-one meetings throughout the year.

The Enterprise StudioGives Mater's students hands-on entrepreneurial support, mentorship, and resources to develop real ventures in the art and luxury sectors, culminating in The Gavel pitch competition.

Renowned and inspiring speakers Previous guest speakers include artists Sonia Boyce (winner of the Golden Lion, Venice Biennale 2022); William Kentridge; Alfredo Jaar; Anthea Hamilton; Martin Creed; and Zarina Bhimji."

"The program’s first semester supplies foundations in the study of objects, medium and techniques, ideas, histories, and exhibitions both in the classroom and on visits in the city.

In the second semester, students examine global contemporary art and survey the key institutions—galleries, auction houses, and museums—through which contemporary art flows. The professional skills required for working with contemporary art are taught in a course examining key areas in art law, commerce, and fine art valuation.

The Master’s degree is awarded for 30 credits across semesters one and two, as well as the completion of a 6-credit thesis or capstone project in the third semester.

The MA in Contemporary Art culminates in a capstone project which can take the form of a traditional, long-form academic thesis, or a more flexible Master’s Project (often a business plan or curatorial project).

Students may also elect to extend their studies an additional semester and either transfer to the Institute’s campus in London or return to New York and pursue core courses in either Art Business or Fine and Decorative Art and Design."