Bachelor of Fine Arts in Indigenous Visual Culture
OCAD University
Key Information
Campus location
Toronto, Canada
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
4 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
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Application deadline
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Earliest start date
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* applications received after February 4, may be considered if there is space
Introduction
Indigenous Visual Culture
In the Indigenous Visual Culture program, you will be inspired to learn from the creative traditions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit art and design practices. The program includes studio-based courses where you make your own art and design. It also includes studying the visual, cultural, social, and political history of Indigenous peoples.
Admissions
Curriculum
What You’ll Do in the Program
First Year
In the first year, you’ll take intro classes in topics such as:
- Observational drawing
- Design process
- Illustrative concepts
- Observational painting
- Art and design history
Second Year
In the second year, you will study topics such as:
- Graphic design for illustration
- Human form and function: anatomy
- Graphic design history
- Media studio: digital
Third Year
The third year will feature an open elective and more advanced courses, such as:
- Graphic novel illustration
- Book illustration
- Illustrative painting
Fourth Year
In the fourth year, you'll complete a year-long thesis project, developing an original portfolio designed for self-promotion.
You’ll showcase your work at GradEx _ OCAD U’s Graduate Exhibition, the biggest free art and design exhibition in Toronto with more than 40,000 visitors.
Gallery
Program Outcome
This unique program develops Indigenous and Non-Indigenous students’ knowledge of Indigenous cultural and artistic practices, including painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, installation, and digital media.
Students in the program receive academic, cultural, social, and wellness support through the Indigenous Visual Culture Student Center.
Students in the program are creative, innovative, and curious and have many different skills and interests. Most have storytelling instincts and strong imaginations. Some have a drawing and painting ability or dance experience, some are DJs or VJs with an interest in communication. Many have well-developed visual-spatial skills and are interested in screens, games or performance, digital media production, or computer programming.
At the end of this four-year program, you will earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.
Career Opportunities
Jobs You Can Get
Graduates of the program work at:
- Publishing companies
- Advertising and graphic design firms
- Digital studios
- Community organizations
- Freelance illustration
Co-ops/Internships
OCAD U offers so much more than co-ops because creative careers take many forms. Our approach is specialized and individual to every student’s needs and goals. You will be able to take advantage of:
- Short experiential learning placements from among hundreds of organizations
- Creative in-class projects with real-world industry partners
- Exclusive summer internships
- Gallery exhibitions of your work
- Freelance creative opportunities
- Jobs after graduation
OCAD University’s dedicated support services will help you build a professional community, valuable experience and skills necessary for a meaningful career.
English Language Requirements
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