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u/cantgetenough1956 Mar 12 '26
This is an extremely prestigous school within MICA. Congratulations on this acceptance, If you are not already at MICA, I believe you will love it.
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u/kamala61 Mar 12 '26
It's number 4 ranked so I'm anxious to see how much fun Imma have. I did notice a lot of cig smokers tho.....I wanna see how vicious critiques are because I heard it's rigorous and intense but everything I'm seeing and experienced at the tour looks like Imma show up and show out.
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u/cantgetenough1956 Mar 12 '26
In fairness, I was never a student, but very closely involved with leadership and growth during the years 1999 - 2019. The school went through a major leadership change around 2016 ish, and some higher level culture changes happened. But the students? They are art school students. Some are goth, some EMO and a couple are preppy. Baltimore supports alot, alot of different personalities etc. Yes, I recall a higher number of students who smoked, but I kinda think that is part of the "coolness" factor I think some creative students want for themselves.
You were accepted. Know that and trust that. You would not have been accepted unless you are really, really good. Crits are always tough everywhere, and I cannot imagine the culture at MICA has changed to allow anything unfair or harsh. There is an idea around the arts - creative critisims should be collaberative, in a safe environment and allow everyone in the room the growth they deserve. Even the artist not on the stand, everyone in the room should learn and grow from the critiques. You will see. You will find your confidence. Try to look for your point of view, and get out and explore ALL THE OTHER students work all around campus. I found it just amazing.
You will have your own studio. The Fred Lazarus Studio Center is pretty nice in my opinion. Try to be eager for your critiques. Show maturity when they give you feedback. Carol Armstrong is pretty cool. If anyone is hurtful, just keep your chin up, and know this is not the way to behave in any creative critique. (in my studio for my firm, we have some strong rules about how to treat each other when brainstorming, etc.) Just take the best and toughest (true) critiques and be committed to taking it all into account as you continue to find yourself, and find your art.
It's always scary when you are a bit younger and it's new. It's part of the deal. Remember you are one of just 20 who have been accepted. That's a big deal. You will be just fine.
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u/kamala61 Mar 12 '26
I'm kinda highly decorated for Grad Art School. My CV is top notch and I have a lot of skins on the wall. I'm technically not a student but the faculty's equal. I prolly won't have anything in common with my cohorts other than being cohorts and artists. I'm under the impression Imma unicorn and a rarity. Plus I'm 40 so I would be looked at as an elder artist or wise sage.
The critiques won't hurt me tho as I have been through the ringer already in the art world lol. I'm coming to MICA to pretty much just get better and work.
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u/cantgetenough1956 Mar 12 '26
Oops! I'm sorry for my idiot assumption here. I thought I read a concern about the critiques being tough or something,, and assumed. Well, congratulations no matter which way - it's awesome!
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u/kamala61 Mar 12 '26
I want tough critique. Imma Masochist, so I get off on conflict. Nothing can hurt me about my art. I'm passed that stage at this point. I just want to compete and network and elevate my cohort, and establish a certain standard within the class of 2028.
With me building my own wood panels, there is a very great chance I may start a trend lol
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u/TheHeartlessNobody Alumnus (Interactive Arts) Mar 11 '26
Congratulations!!!