Everything you need to know about BA in Fine Arts

by Mayank Kumar Counsellor

Do you like drawing, sketching and have a knack for creativity?

If the answer is yes, studying for a Bachelor of Fine Arts will be a perfect choice. The discipline of fine arts include film, painting, photography, music, architecture, pottery, conceptual art, sculpture, printmaking, interior design, drama, and dancing.

According to Aristotle, "The main aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but also their inward significance".

You end up learning the two-dimensional, three-dimensional, or four-dimensional art forms with a Fine Arts degree. In addition, with this programme, you can independently create and present your artwork in exhibitions, shops, craft markets, galleries and trade fairs.

Duration and Courses

There are many certificates, diplomas and degree level courses in fine arts courses offered by different colleges and universities. You can also pursue a PG and PhD programmes in Fine Arts. The duration of the degree varies from one to five years.

Diploma Course:

· Diploma in Fine Arts: It is a one year course and can be pursued after class 12th.

Undergraduate Courses:

· BFA or BVA: The duration of this course is four-five years.

· BA in Fine Arts: It is a three-year course.

Postgraduate Course:

· MFA or MVA: It is a two-year programme.

· Master of Arts in Fine Arts (MA): The duration of this course is typically two years.

Skills Required in Fine Arts

The fine arts course allows one to learn new styles and skills. One should have the below-mentioned skills if planning on doing a course in Fine Arts:

· The ability to develop practical ideas

· Determination and communication

· Technical skills that are needed for your art form

· Self-belief

· Research skills

· Great visualisation

· Knowledge about the history, origin, and transition of your art form

· Effective presentation skills

· The ability to work in a group

· Patience to work for long hours

In addition, many specific skills vary depending on the art form you choose to specialise in.

BFA: Job Profiles

There are many jobs available for Fine Arts students in India. In addition, the types of job profiles for BFA candidates vary according to specialisation. Below mentioned are different BFA job profiles:

· Fine Artist: The primary job role of a fine artist is to produce artwork using various techniques. Fine artists can also work independently and sell their work through art galleries.

· Actor: Students who possess a fine arts degree specialising in theatre can work as actors on screen or stage. As an actor, a learner can express ideas and portray characters in television, film, theatre and other performing arts media.

· Multimedia Artist: Students who pass their BFA degree specialising in multimedia create animation sequences or storyboards. Such students typically work for advertising agencies or software, designing, television and gaming companies.

· Art Director: Students who clear the BFA programme with a graphic or multimedia design specialisation usually become art directors. An art director typically works for ad agencies.

· Writer: A BFA student in creative writing may find a technical writer, copywriter, freelance writer or creative writer. A writer can work for broadcast companies, advertising agencies, newspapers, publishing houses, or PR agencies.

The salary of a BFA student depends on the specialisation that they have chosen and how reformed their skills are. The pay keeps increasing along with the experience and knowledge of students.

Final Thoughts

Today, the opportunities associated to a Fine Arts degree are increasing rapidly in various sectors. For example, arts graduates have become archaeologists, interior designers, financial planners, and writers. The degree is an enjoyable one if you have a passion for it. You should always select a degree that you want to, not the one you have to. If you believe in something, there is a greater chance of success. Last but not least, make a wise decision before you end up choosing a university to pursue this course.