Academy of Art MFA Illustration program?

**UrsusArctos** · December 4th, 2007, 11:33 AM

Hi everyone.

I am going to be graduating with my BA in "Art Studio" from a regular state university in may. I have always pulled top grades, but I am very aware that my education in the arts and particularly illustration, is lacking in comparison to those students who went to "real" art school.

So, I want to continue my education and hopefully earn my MFA in illustration- with my emphasis being children's book illustration. I have been eyeballing the Academy of Art's illustration program for years, but I get the impression here that this program is somewhat looked down upon? I am curious if anyone here has had a positive experience with this program, particularly the MFA? I have seen some excellent work come out of this program but I also keep hearing that students feel like they are just a number?

Also, I am signed up for Bobby Chui's imaginism class starting in January, and I am sure you all know that it is an online course. Depending on how well I learn through this format- I am considering (if I go to AAU) taking a course or two online- has anyone here taken a studio course online before? I understand that one of the true benefits of going to graduate school is the ability to make connections with people- but to be able to take say, my first semester online, allowing me to work and save before I make the big move to the bay, could really be beneficial. Thoughts?

Thanks so much for taking the time to respond to me!

**MelissaCrystal** · December 4th, 2007, 08:04 PM

There are many bad teachers, just like any college, but there are quite a few to aim for. Unfortunately, I don't think the online classes are "there" yet because most of the info you can get from a book, and all of the critiques you can get from good artists on these forums. Being in person is almost a must for the MFA, especially because even some of the good teachers who DO do the online programs really aren't that computer literate and don't take the online classes as seriously. As a children's book illustrator, you'll probably want to take all of Stephen Player's master classes, for sure. A huge factor for me at least is that the Academy is the cheapest private art school in the state, and it's very convenient in San Fran with its own bussing system and the huge number of buildings we have. They are a business school, and they don't exactly make sure to pamper each student, which is why they are looked down upon. When you go to the academy, you have to make it a personal goal to get as much out of it as possible and get the right teachers that will make it worth it to you. A lot of people just let the school "happen" to them rather than grasping the opportunity to work with the great artists the school has to offer. I don't think you'd regret going to the academy if you're a serious illustrator who knows what they want (and if you know how to afford school, which is an art in its own).

**UrsusArctos** · December 4th, 2007, 10:41 PM

Hey thanks for taking the time to respond to my post! Are you in the masters program?

And I completely know how it is to have to make yourself work- My state school does not push me- at all. In fact, if I had just wanted to get the bare minimum degree, I could have graduated in 3 years because the course load is so low (you are only required to take 4 upper division art classes! sick!!). Instead I have been here for five year, taking and retaking every art class I think may be helpful. I hope it pays off!