The Contemporary Realism specialization at PAFA provides an ideal training for representational and realist artists. The Academy has a long tradition in teaching contemporary realism. Today, the tradition continues of redefining realism for each new generation of artists.
PAFA’s Contemporary Realism specialization provides a rigorous training for figurative and representational artists. Students select classes from a wide range of representational or realist-oriented courses, and study with Contemporary Realist mentors. Drawing is at the heart of the Academy experience. Cast drawing teaches you how to see like an artist, and working from the life model is the basis of training as a representational artist.
Advanced classes go far beyond the fundamentals and teach you to draw, paint and sculpt at a professional level. Students with the specialization in Contemporary Realism attend workshops with great contemporary realists such as Vincent Desiderio and Barkley L. Hendricks. Students also study with one of the largest faculty of outstanding realist painters, sculptors and printmakers in the world.
Students who choose a specialization in Contemporary Realism work with faculty mentors to design a personalized course of study within the programs of painting, drawing, printmaking or sculpture.
Students who wish to complete the Contemporary Realism specialization may obtain:
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A Certificate with a major in Painting, Drawing, Printmaking or Sculpture with a specialization in Contemporary Realism Studies.
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A Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in Painting, Drawing, Printmaking or Sculpture with a specialization in Contemporary Realism Studies.