Department of Craft/Material Studies

VCUarts students studying in the Craft/Material Studies receive a unique education gaining deep transferable technical skills while honing conceptual development.  Our department has 5 main areas of study: glass, fiber, clay, metal, and wood. Hands on active learning focusing on ancient processes from all over the world to the incorporation of new modes of thinking and making. Students learn to create work along the broad spectrum of our field from functional design to conceptual work that propels culture and challenges the age we live in. Students refine communication skills through writing, presenting, and discussing their work with vast audiences.  After school, our students pursue a wide range professional careers or graduate study.

Students complete courses that collectively examine diverse materials, leading to deep learning and cultivation of curiosity. They select courses from an array of subjects relevant to Craft/Material Studies including studio electives, art history, gender studies, and more. By the time students complete their degree, they develop skills in professional writing, public speaking, and visual analysis.

Programs

BFA in Craft/Material Studies

The BFA in Craft/Material Studies offers five areas of focus—glass, fiber, clay, metal and wood. The program incorporates contemporary modes of thinking and making with long-established techniques from all over the world.

Minor in Craft/Material Studies

The Minor in Craft/Material Studies allows students from outside of the program to enrich their degrees with rigorous and engaging coursework.

MFA Degrees

Browse our MFA degrees with concentrations in jewelry/metalworking, glassworking, furniture design, fibers and ceramics

Areas of study

Browse our ares of study: glass, fiber, clay, metal and wood.

Visiting Artists

The Department of Craft/Material Studies regularly invites world-acclaimed practitioners, artists and scholars to share their work and insight with our students and community.

Alumni

Explore recent updates from our alumni.

Student Resources

Browse information for students including internship, research and exhibition opportunities in addition to scholarship and independent study resources.

News

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Erin Cross – OBSOLESCENE

January 19, 2022

matt lambert Visiting Artist Lecture | Feb 8

January 14, 2022

Tamara Kostianovsky Visiting Artist Lecture | Feb 1

January 5, 2022