Ceramic materials are back where they belong: at the centre of artistic creation. The University of Art and Design Linz expands the corresponding master programme.
Major exhibitions such as the Venice Biennale show impressively: Clay is no longer denied its quality as a fine arts material. On the contrary: Its deep cultural and historical roots as well as its presence in everyday world are now truly appreciated. Gone are the days when the surface feel of ceramics was seen as a reactionary corrective to the digital age. Today, people use digital tools to further develop traditional techniques, achieving entirely new forms of expression.
However, the number of universities and academies where students can explore ceramic materials has been decreasing for decades – a clear shortcoming in the international university landscape. But now, the University of Art and Design Linz expands its educational offering.
For years, the Department of Sculptural Conceptions / Ceramics at the University of Art and Design has represented an approach corresponding to a natural co-existence of different materials – including ceramics. First, the programme focuses on art, on sculpture and installation. Spatial proximity to the ceramics workshop gives students access to the materials during the entire course of studies. It is up to the students to decide if they wish to make use of this opportunity in their further development.
Students use ceramics for their works in many different ways. From approaches addressing the origins of the basic materials to the acquisition of traditional techniques to the experimental exploration of the various forms of appearance of clay – all different approaches to ceramics can be found. Not all teachers use ceramic materials in their own artistic practice: The selection of the teaching staff depends on the relevance of their contributions to the current art discourse.
Starting with the 2023 summer semester, a visiting professorship will complement the wide range of offerings including workshops and guest lectures. It will provide students with a new professional perspective assisting them in reflecting on their individual development. An established artist visiting for a semester allows for a profound exploration of different artistic attitudes.
The international master programme Sculptural Conceptions / Ceramics, aimed at graduates of a diploma or bachelor programme in the fields of sculpture and installation, will be expanded. Open to all media and materials, the English-language programme offers you the opportunity to explore ceramic materials within already existing artistic work.
Visit the programme’s Instagram page.
