The Master’s Program in Criticism and Theory focuses on the interdisciplinary analysis of art and design in the contexts of contemporary culture and media. It is an intensive writing program culminating in a master’s thesis that engages a specific area of contemporary art or design. The curriculum is comprised of graduate seminars, some shared with Art Center’s other graduate programs in Media Design, Industrial Design, Film, and especially Fine Art, one-on-one tutorials, and writing workshops. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers as critics, writers, and for positions in museums and publishing. They are also prepared to continue their studies in doctoral programs in art criticism, theory, design, art history and other fields of cultural studies. The program currently has 15 students, with plans to increase enrollment to 25 over the next two years.
The responsibilities of the Chair are: the administration of the program, including curricula, budget management, student reviews and thesis preparation; collaboration with the other graduate programs at Art Center; public promotion and recruitment of students; establishing alliances with other art and design organizations; coordinating the faculty and directing new hires when needed; providing vision and leadership; working closely with students.
The ideal candidate will be an experienced administrator on the college level in art and/or design or its related fields. He or she will have an established reputation in art and/or design criticism and scholarship and be well-connected in these fields on a national and international level. He or she will also be an excellent communicator who works well with students and faculty, understands and values different approaches to art and design criticism and theory, and possesses an enthusiastic interest in building the program. The Ph.D degree is recommended but not required.
The deadline for application is June 15, 2004. Candidates should send a current c.v. and cover letter to:
Mark Breitenberg
Chair, Liberal Arts & Sciences
Art Center College of Design
1700 Lida St.
Pasadena, CA 91103
