The Master of Contemporary Practices in Art (Advanced) is aimed at artists who want to develop a more ambitious, independent contemporary art practice. The program extends a student’s practical, theoretical and conceptual knowledge in order to develop a deeper understanding of contemporary practices in context of how artists work in a range of disciplines. Contemporary artists respond to the challenges and questions that arise in an increasingly global and technologically advanced world. Their approaches are diverse, combining materials, methods and subjects that extend their practice. Artists today increasingly problem solve, collaborate with a variety of partners, and think and work outside of the traditional boundaries that distinguish a contemporary practice. This graduate program is unique as it supports hands on learning development in workshop, studio and digital environments by progressing students through courses that support individual practice-led research opportunities. Students are encouraged to undertake a range of approaches to contemporary art practice, including a focus on specialist knowledge of materials and skills, testing new conceptual methodologies, and/or solving problems through cross-disciplinary or hybrid experiences. Students benefit directly from and contribute to the research environment found within the School of Art and Design.

Employment Opportunities

The School of Art and Design is a major stakeholder in Australia’s national contemporary art sector. SOAD graduates participate in and contribute to the arts, sustaining and developing an independent practice or business, or work within the creative industry sector. MCAP students will have the opportunity to develop their professional practice by broadening their networks, build new audiences and graduate with a competitive edge. Students will complete this program with a more informed and developed awareness of their art practice, its direction and how it is situated within the fields of contemporary art and practice-led research. They will graduate with new, distinctive bodies of work; be ready for exhibition or production; and be prepared for future opportunities, including applying to residencies, collaborations, grant applications and/or awards. Students may be ready to apply to higher level reserach degrees. This program aligns with the Australian Government’s forecast that to meet the demands of a changing workforce it is important to maximise opportunities for students in the 21st Century. [i] The VCAP will extend students’ practical, theoretical and conceptual knowledge in order to develop a deeper understanding of contemporary art practices in context of how artists work today. Students will graduate with the necessary creative qualifications and skills contributing to different value chains and knowledge exchange in a range of industries.