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does an MFA make you better?

06/02/2008 16:41:45 / full of life

I have been asking myself if I should go back to school to get a masters degree almost 30 years after getting a BA. I dont know what I should do. I have about 15 yrs of painting and show experience, I teach now (at a small private art college) and as I have inquired about other teaching jobs, I am finding a masters degree is a must these days. Doesnt 15 years of painting and showing and selling art matter more than a degree at this point? I think I can get into a special program for a Masters of art and education degree, but thats not the same as an MFA.. but the program sounds wonderful.. and in 22 months of part time classes that accomodate a working person's schedule, I would have a masters. What should I do? In a few days I will probably figure this out on my own but..


any feedback would be appreciated.



MEMBERS COMMENTS



VIEWING 1 - 4 OUT OF 4 COMMENTS



From: Deb_Magelssen
06/16/2008 21:25:28
I was always and will continue to be in the same dilema.  I would love to go back and get my MFA, however, I also know that I am becoming a better painter just by painting everyday.  So, I guess I do not have a specific answer for you.  If you want and it feels right in your heart- go for it-otherwise, as you paint everyday, you will naturally become a better artist.  Looks to me you are ready to go beyond what you know anyways-If you can afford it and you really want to do it, by all means go for it.  It may also open up other opportunities for you such as teaching at a higher level.  Blessings in what ever you choose!      Deb


From: gregoryalbright
06/12/2008 11:52:48

It will make you happy, and poor.  Last I checked, an MFA at our local state college was still going to be 35,000.  With two in college, it will never get cheaper for you.  With the degree, you might have to take a job out of state before getting that tenure track position at RISD, so if you like Iowa or Arkansas, go for it!

 I know a couple people who teach/taught at the college level, and I wish I hadn't talked to them about it, I should ignore what they said about the career and its pitfalls.  Seems like you'd make more opening a studio and teaching individuals, hosting trips to Rome, e.g.

 I think you might like to check out Johnson State in VT for their MFA.  As a MA resident, it won't be as cheap, but you could live in VT and it is geared for us working class folks, with 3 one-month residencies and 2 semester independent projects.

I will want to know what you decide, of course, but in my opinion, you seem like you are ripe and ready to move on to bigger and better things...MFA or not.

 greg

 

 

 

 

 

From: Analagous
06/03/2008 01:46:43

Hi Robin, 


I have to agree with Lisabeth.   In a lot of proffesions you start really learning about your trade after you get out into the field.  You may need the sheepskin as a technicality to land certain jobs.   I say look deep into your heart and hear what it's telling you.  What makes you smile and warms your heart.   I think at the end of it all,  that's what's going to make your day.


Ann

From: Lisabeth
06/02/2008 22:39:23

Hi Robin,


I pondered the same issue when I was writing novels. My conclusion, it won't make you better, just different.


Sounds like you want to make a living teaching, where a masters can count. Also the 22 mos part time sounds great. However, it won't make you a better artist, just more appealing to places that require it to hire.


Don't know whether I was any help, but that's how I feel.


Let me know what you decide.


Live in the light, Lisabeth







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