ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS OF THE ARTS HELSINKI UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS GUIDE

Transcription

1 ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS HELSINKI ADMISSIONS GUIDE 2015

2 Taideyliopiston Kuvataideakatemian valintaopas 2015 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 Main Admission, Master s Admission,

3 INDEX WHEN TO APPLY TO THE APPLICANT ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS Special arrangements Announcing the results Appeals Accepting the study place One-place-per-student provision Enrolment for the first year Admission course assignments DEGREES Bachelor of Fine Arts Master of Fine Arts Doctor of Fine Arts TEACHING STAFF STUDY PROGRAMMES Sculpture Painting Printmaking Time and Space Arts Art Theory and General Studies Praxis Master s Programme for Exhibition Studies Doctoral Studies Programme MASTER S ADMISSION 2015 MASTER OF FINE ARTS Admission criteria Admission procedure Application procedure Special arrangements Announcing the results Appeals Accepting the study place Enrolment for the first year Frequently asked questions about the Master s admission Frequently asked questions about applying and about studying in Academy of Fine Arts APPLICANTS AND STUDENTS ACCEPTED IN THE ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS MAIN ADMISSION 2015 BACHELOR AND MASTER OF FINE ARTS Admission criteria Admission procedure Application procedure SORA LEGISLATION FURTHER INFORMATION

4 WHEN TO APPLY Applications to the University of the Arts Helsinki s Academy of Fine Arts are submitted in the Main admission and Master s admission procedures via the electronic Studyinfo service. 1. MAIN ADMISSION BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS AND MASTER OF FINE ARTS DEGREES ( credits, years) The application period begins on 7 January and ends on 27 January 2015, at 3 pm Finnish time. Fill out and submit the electronic application form at The artistic work samples and appendices will be submitted separately, during the period of 20 and 21 April Please check the delivery address and times on the student admissions site of the University of the Arts Helsinki ( Work samples must reach the Academy no later than Tuesday 21 April 2015 at 4.15 pm Finnish time in cases when they are sent by post as well. 2. MASTER S ADMISSION MASTER OF FINE ARTS (120 credits, 2 years) The application period begins on 7 January and ends on 27 January 2015, at 3 pm Finnish time. Fill out and submit the electronic application form at A copy of the electronic application, with appendices, and the portfolio are to be submitted directly to the Academy of Fine Arts by Tuesday 10 February 2015, no later than at 4.15 pm Finnish time. 3. DOCTORAL STUDIES PROGRAMME S ADMISSION (240 credits, 4 years) The application period for studies starting in autumn 2015 was

5 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 TO THE APPLICANT Main Admission, Master s Admission, The Academy of Fine Arts trains free artists in the fine arts. The goal of our training is to provide comprehensive practical and theoretical knowledge in the field of fine arts, contributing to the student s development into an artist. Thus, the purpose of the education is to offer an understanding of the qualities needed for artistic activities. The Academy of Fine Arts is part of the University of the Arts Helsinki, which comprises the Academy of Fine Arts, the Theatre Academy Helsinki and the Sibelius Academy. The Academy offers the possibility to complete the degrees of Bachelor, Master and Doctor of Fine Arts. Our teaching is based on the tradition of fine art academies, whose roots run to 15th century Europe. This means that a comprehensive idea of today s globality as well as the history of our imagery and a profound awareness of its cultural significance nourish the conceptions of art and being an artist conveyed at the Academy. This means that studies at the Academy of Fine Arts include the element of combining practical work with conceptual consciousness of the dialogue between the classical tradition of fine arts education and the ever-extending field of contemporary art. Studying at the Academy of Fine Arts means having the courage to take on the unknown with open arms and without any certainty of self-evident results. Good self-knowledge, bravery and commitment combined with artistic talent are a good starting point for the studies. In addition to them, you need the will to interact with the world through art and to be prepared to find out that this relationship may evolve into a demanding and lifelong one. Markus Konttinen Dean of the Academy of Fine Arts 5

6 ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 The Academy of Fine Arts is an academy that concentrates on education in the contemporary arts. The students graduate with a Bachelor s, Master s or a Doctorate degree in Fine Arts. For 160 years, the Academy of Fine Arts has offered the highest level of education in the fine arts in Finland. The Academy of Fine Arts is part of the University of the Arts Helsinki; the operation of the University of the Arts began with the merger of the Finnish Academy of Fine Arts, the Theatre Academy Helsinki and the Sibelius Academy on the 1st of January Studies leading to the Bachelor s and Master s degrees are provided by the study programmes of Sculpture, Painting, Printmaking and Time and Space Arts (moving image, photography and site specific arts) study programmes. In addition to these, a new twoyear Master s programme Praxis Exhibition Studies was initiated in the autumn of It offers education focusing on art theory and methods of presenting and mediating art and leads to a Master of Fine Arts degree. The Academy s curriculum, which emphasises individuality, and its small number of students (ca 270) offer the students a unique opportunity to get long-span personal study guidance and a chance for independent work during their studies. The teachers of the Academy are active artists, who carry out their artistic work alongside their teaching and thus maintain a living contact with the field of fine arts. The studies leading to the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree (lower university degree) aim to provide the student with the artistic, cognitive and theoretical basic abilities and skills required from a visual artist. After completing their degree, the students have the resources they need to work as visual artists and to carry on to the studies leading to a Master s degree and lifelong learning. The Master of Fine Arts degree (higher university degree) aims to offer the students the resources to function as an independent and analytical artist in society and the world. Masters of Fine Arts have a thorough command of the instruments of fine arts and an understanding of the current significance and history of those instruments. They are qualified to act as experts and developers of fine arts and are ready to continue to postgraduate education in art. The objective of the Doctor of Fine Arts degree (postgraduate degree) is that the students have a profound understanding of their own field of interest and achieve the qualifications needed to create high-level, artistically mature work and that they are able to carry out independent, innovative research in their own field. There are three separate admission procedures for the Academy of Fine Arts. In the Main admission procedure, students are selected to complete the Bachelor s and Master s degrees, which total in 5.5 years of study. In the Academy of Fine Arts Master s admissions, students are selected to complete the two-year programme leading to the Master of Fine Arts degree. Applicants with a lower university degree or equivalent competence are eligible to apply in Main Admission, Master s Admission, 6

7 the Master s admission procedure. Students who have completed a higher university degree in an applicable field or hold an equivalent competence are eligible to apply for the four-year Postgraduate Studies Programme leading to the Doctor of Fine Arts degree. The Academy of Fine Arts does not organise a separate international admissions procedure or studies in foreign languages; nevertheless, international students make up approximately 15 per cent of the student body, with both degree students and exchange students represented. As a student of the Academy of Fine Arts, you can pursue international experience by, for instance, completing a part of the study programme s study requirements at one of the Academy s international partner universities. The Academy of Fine Arts works in active cooperation with other institutions in the field, both within the study programmes and as a part of the Academy s exhibition activities. Every year, the Academy of Fine Arts hosts a great number of international visiting lecturers, teachers and exhibitions. Studio flats in Berlin and New York City are also available for students use. In 2015, the maximum number of new basic degree students to be accepted for study at the Academy of Fine Arts will be 55 (the total number of students accepted in the Main and Master s admissions procedures.) There will be no student admission procedure for Praxis Master s Programme of Exhibition Studies in

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9 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 DEGREES Main Admission, It is possible to complete the following degrees at the Academy of Fine Arts: Bachelor of Fine Arts (KuK/BFA), Master of Fine Arts (KuM/MFA) and Doctor of Fine Arts (KuT/DFA). One credit (cr) equates the workload of approximately 27 hours. The fulltime studies of one academic year correspond to in average 60 credits. The scope of the BFA degree is 3.5 years of fulltime studying. The MFA degree can be finished in two years. The DFA degree can be finished in four years. Master s Admission, 9

10 BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS (BFA) 210 credits, 3.5 years The BFA degree aims to provide the student with the artistic and cognitive abilities and skills as well as theoretical basic abilities required for work as an artist. The students who have completed the degree possess an insight into the field of the fine arts and a command of the techniques of sculpture, painting, printmaking or the time and space arts. In addition, the student will also specialise in one of the fields of fine arts mentioned above. These qualifications will enable the student to keep abreast of the development of fine arts as well as apply the knowledge and skills they have gathered to their work. Completion of the BFA degree also offers the students suitable qualifications for the studies leading to a Master s degree and for lifelong learning. It also provides them with good communication and language skills. DEGREE STRUCTURE Basic Studies 40 cr Orientation 2 cr Introduction to Study Programmes 20 cr Art History 10 cr ICT studies 8 cr Language Studies 8 cr Intermediate Studies 162 cr Major Subject Compulsory Studies 45 cr Independent Studio Work 30 cr Theoretical Studies: Art in Contemporary Society I 17 cr Drawing and Perception 10 cr Elective Studies 50 cr Bachelor s Thesis 10 cr 10

11 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 MASTER OF FINE ARTS (MFA) 120 credits, 2 years Main Admission, The MFA degree aims to offer the student resources for acting as independent and analytical artist in society and the world. The Masters of Fine Arts have profound command of the artistic media and understand their contemporary significance as well as their history. They can set goals and objectives for themselves and are qualified to act as experts and developers of fine arts. In addition, they have the necessary qualifications for postgraduate studies in fine arts as well as good communication and language skills. DEGREE STRUCTURE Advanced studies 120 cr Artistic Studies: Critical Studies and Practice cr Theoretical Studies: Art in Contemporary Society II cr Master s Thesis 40 cr If the student has not completed the language studies required for the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at an earlier stage, he/she must complete them in addition to the Advanced studies (120 study credits) described above. Master s Admission, 11

12 DOCTOR OF FINE ARTS (DFA) 240 credits, 4 years Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 The aim of doctoral studies is for the student to have a profound understanding of their own field and the capacity to produce high-quality work that demonstrates their artistic maturity, and engage in independent, innovative artistic research in the field of their choice. Studies follow a personal research and study plan, which is drawn up together with the professor in charge and the student s personal supervisor. The minimum extent of the doctoral studies is 240 study credits (ECTS). The education is intended to be completed in four (4) years, which presumes fulltime dedication to the work. DEGREE REQUIREMENTS (240 CR.) Doctoral thesis in Fine Art Postgraduate studies in Fine Arts Research seminars Working seminars 18 cr Essay seminars 18 cr Theory seminars 18 cr Symposium 7 cr Alternative studies 9 cr 170 cr 70 cr Doctoral thesis in the Finnish Academy of Fine Arts consist of a visual art production component and a theoretical written component. A thesis can also be entirely theoretical. The production component comprises one or more demanding visual art productions that demonstrate the author s artistic maturity. The productions are presented or performed publicly. Exhibition curating is also accepted as a production component. The theoretical component is an independently prepared work, published as a book or in some other format (e.g. electronically), which has not been published earlier in its entirety. The theoretical component can be a monograph or it can consist of several publications or manuscripts accepted for publication (cf. integrated article thesis). The texts must be part of the same thematic whole and satisfy the quality criteria for doctoral theses. In the theoretical component, the author analyses his/her own artistic practice and/ or produces new knowledge on the research topic by means of some other practice-based method. The application period for studies starting in autumn 2015 was Main Admission, Master s Admission, 12

13 TEACHING STAFF The teaching staff of the Academy of Fine Arts is composed of distinguished artist-teachers who are actively involved in expert and reviewer responsibilities both in Finland and internationally. Tuition at the Academy of Fine Arts is based on the realisation that constant change affects contemporary art and the essence of artistic work, influenced both by domestic and international factors. The teachers at the Academy work as professional artists and are actively involved in the field of art and convey their experiences to the students. Tuition at the Academy of Fine Arts accentuates individual, one-to-one instruction that takes place in the student s studio and in the common studio and work facilities. In the student s own study programme, each student is appointed a tutoring teacher, who keeps a close eye on the student. The instruction at the Academy is complemented by the expertise of its visiting professors, both Finnish and international. The visiting teaching staff hosts thematic workshops and special courses and their instruction offers the students opportunities for expanding their technical skills. Visiting teachers can also take on responsibilities of thesis supervisors, examiners and experts. Through their expertise and professional networks, the teaching staff is able to introduce the students to the field of fine arts in Finland and internationally and also offers an excellent professional basis for working as an artist. 13

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15 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 STUDY PROGRAMMES Main Admission, The studies leading to the Bachelor s and Master s degrees are organised in study programmes. The programmes focus on specific disciplines of fine arts requiring artistic talent and expertise and seek to develop these further. The Academy offers study programmes in Sculpture, Painting, Printmaking and Time and Space arts. Master s Admission, 15

16 SCULPTURE The study programme in Sculpture examines the use of three-dimensional space in artistic work. Studies are founded on hands-on work and keeping the traditions of sculpture alive. The focus is also on the command of various approaches in contemporary sculpture, an in-depth understanding of the techniques available and utilising these in the student s own artistic work The instruction in the Sculpture study programme contains, in addition to installations and works of art located in galleries or museums, the exploration of time, space and situation specific processes. Furthermore, the programme emphasizes understanding of public space and works placed in public spaces. The main emphasis of the studies is in the independent artistic work of the student, advised through discussions, critique sessions and seminar work. The objectives of independent artistic work are to support the expression and concepts of the student and the development of creative problem solving abilities. Thematic lectures in sculpture as well as artist-led projects and workshops organised both in Finland and abroad contribute to the studies on the basics of artistic tools and methods, intended for all students, introducing the materials, techniques and working methods in sculpture. Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 Main Admission, Master s Admission, 16

17 PAINTING The study programme in Painting has two professors and three lecturers and a number of highly professional visiting teachers who are recognised artists. The contents of the workshops, studio visits and study trips reflect the perspectives of the teaching staff as well as the fields of art of their expertise. In other words, no philosopher s stone can be offered on the contents of contemporary painting; instead, they reflect the artists cultured and varied insights. A common denominator can be found in the background of the individual themes in the form of the general features of contemporary art, such as its site-specificity and interpretation of the works of art in the framework of society and the theories from different scientific disciplines. Painting, furthermore, has a much longer history than, for example, moving image, and this is visible in the instruction in the great number of points of comparison brought up in the history of art. The instruction in the study programme of Painting focuses, alongside other themes, on the individual interests of the Professors of the study programme, Tarja Pitkänen-Walter and Silja Rantanen. Tarja Pitkänen-Walter approaches painting as an action and a process; the material qualities of the painting, multisensory perception and the extended field of painting. She addressed these themes in her doctoral thesis in Fine Art, Liian haurasta kuvaksi (2006). Tarja Pitkänen-Walter organises study modules related to these themes. The courses include visitor lectures by both Finnish and international experts in the field and international study visits are also organised under these themes. Silja Rantanen s interests lie in the history of art, composition and the importance of form 17

18 in contemporary art; i.e., the visual characteristics of works with conceptual meaning and how their visual structures express meaning. She discusses these topics in her doctoral thesis in Fine Arts ( Ulos sulkeista Nykytaiteen teosmuotojen tulkintaa ) to be reviewed in November In her lectures, Silja Rantanen interprets works by modern and contemporary artist from the artist s perspective. The goal is to introduce culture to students of painting in its broad, general sense, without restricting the perspective into artistic or intellectual moulds. Lecturer Harri Monni s theme, extending over a number of years, is the connection between the imagery and material aspects of moving image and painting and its theory. In his study modules, Harri Monni further explores the concept of painting by drawing parallels between it and other methods of expression, such as printmaking and written texts and examines the influence of performance practices in new painting. Lecturer Päivi Takala s instruction focuses around the analysis on the language of painting. She addresses the basic elements of painting, including the surface and visual representations on the basis of art history, yet constantly searches for new perspectives. Ms Takala s instruction emphasises painting as a way of thinking; the actual artistic work in painting can take place using any medium available. In other words, tuition in the study programme has constant connections to other fields and disciplines in the arts as does contemporary painting. The instruction aims at extending the students views on what painting could be, what it might mean and all the ways in which it is connected to all those things that are not painting. Regardless of the research interests of the professors and lectures in the study programme, instruction in Painting is not, for the main part, theoretical: the primary focus is on seminars, where student works are discussed in small groups every week, and the importance of independent artistic work is considered the to be the first and foremost priority, including studio work and teachers renowned artists visiting the studios. Instruction in the study module of Material Studies, organised by Lecturer Malla Tallgren, is renowned for its high quality. Ms. Tallgren has modified the contents of Material Studies and improved its standards substantially over the years to comply with the requirements set for comprehensive painting. 18

19 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 Main Admission, The instruction in the Printmaking study programme explores the methods of print media, printmaking, in relation to its tradition, reinterpretations and its significance as a part of contemporary art. The processes of artistic activities are approached as an attitude and outlook that take into consideration the duality of the art of printmaking. The printing block and the imprint created are both present in the process. Traditionally, the imprint has referred to a paper print, but in contemporary printmaking it can refer to various other forms. The duality of the approach also results in new practices of contemporary art in the exhibition of printmaking, such as installations, animations and experimental film. PRINTMAKING A major part of the studies is made up of the student s own individual artistic work, with the interaction between the student and teachers and personal discussions as essential features. The objective is to develop the student s own vision in such a manner that the expression is in control of the method, not vice versa. The purpose of the study programme of Printmaking is to provide the student with comprehensive skills and knowledge of the expressive possibilities, various methods and material basics of printmaking. Students are challenged to seek their own artistic solutions and expressions. Exhibition visits, lectures and artist introductions, meetings with critics and studio visits are all part of the instruction. Master s Admission, 19

20 TIME AND SPACE ARTS The instruction in the study programme of Time and Space Arts focuses on the spatial, conceptual and bodily dimensions of artistic activities. The starting point is that art is, by nature, processes and events. The Time and Space Arts have a tendency to reach outwards and they contain the element of constant exploration and experiments. The artistic work has strong connections to media and visual culture and to the extending field of the fine arts, in which the artist s role can take many forms. The student can place emphasis on one of the three specialisations of the study programme: Moving Image, Photography, or Site and Situation Specific Art. The objective of this study programme is to provide the students with a thorough understanding of these fields of art as well as provide insight to the manners in which they are interconnected and linked to the general history and theory of art. Instruction in the Time and Space Arts is composed of courses, workshops, seminars and independent artistic work supported and monitored during individual contact sessions of instruction. In addition to the permanent teaching staff, instruction is given by a number of visiting artists. Students are encouraged to find their own approach and to experiment with new methods of expression as well as to explore the possibilities that time, space and installations offer. The work can also have performative, inclusive and social elements. The final work of art can take the form of an intervention, installation, performance or a video, photography or audio work, among other possibilities. The objective of the work is to render the sensitivity of observation and develop critical thinking. Through practice and theory, students are encouraged to find their own strengths, methods and contents of their artistic work. This is a way to promote the students artistic work and thinking. 20

21 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 Main Admission, General studies provide the students with an opportunity to explore questions that are important to their individual artistic work. Art Theory and General Studies are composed of instruction in art history and art theory, drawing and perception and the studies in the As an artist in society study module. The Centre of General Studies is also responsible for the instruction in the autumn term of the first study year and the language studies and information and communication technology studies included in the degrees. The objective of the instruction is to provide the student with the conceptual tools of understanding the various fields and working ART THEORY AND GENERAL STUDIES methods in the contemporary arts. A command of the history and theory of contemporary art is a prerequisite for being able to examine not only current art trends but also the contemporary world in a broad, independent and critical manner. Instruction in Art Theory and General Studies opens up connections and builds bridges between various matters and perspectives. The instruction deals with a diversity of questions connected to art history and philosophy. Attention is also paid to points such as practicing written skills and understanding the ways in which the art world functions, both essential to professional work as an artist. Master s Admission, 21

22 PRAXIS MASTER S PROGRAMME IN EXHIBITION STUDIES The Praxis Master s Programme is targeted at artists who have an interest in curating art exhibitions and students of theoretical disciplines interested in the exhibition practices of contemporary art. The students who complete the programme will graduate with a Master of Fine Arts degree. 22

23 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 Main Admission, OBJECTIVES AND CONTENTS The Praxis Master s Programme in Exhibition Studies provides students with tools needed for exhibiting art in different contexts and for understanding an exhibition as a medium in its own right. The programme explores the ever-changing contents of the artist s profession and the artist as a curator or a member of the exhibition team. The programme provides the students with the theoretical and practical abilities needed for discussing art and for the methods of presenting and mediating art. The students gain knowledge of the different aspects of the theory of contemporary art, writing about art and organising art exhibitions in practice. The Praxis Master s Programme addresses the many contexts where curators work in the field of contemporary art. The objective is to offer the students new kinds of possibilities for professional opportunities. The contents of instruction take into account the increasing need of artists and other experts in the field of the arts to participate in work opportunities and discussions in their field, both in Finland and internationally. An additional purpose of the Master s Programme is to promote the realisation of student exhibitions and artistic projects and to establish contacts in the field of fine arts both with institutions and parties in the free field of arts. The programme works in cooperation with museums and other exhibition venues, various art institutions, arts and science universities in Finland and abroad and organisations in the field. The language of instruction of the Praxis Master s Programme is Finnish. There is no student admission for Praxis Master s programme in Master s Admission, 23

24 DOCTORAL STUDIES PROGRAMME Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 Main Admission, Since 1997 it has been possible to complete a postgraduate degree, Doctor of Fine Arts (DFA), at the Finnish Academy of Fine Arts. The doctoral studies at the Finnish Academy of Fine Arts are coordinated by the Doctoral Studies Programme. Students in the Doctoral Studies Programme are experts in their own field, artists whose work is characterised by a research-oriented approach. Their approach to their own language of expression is labelled by awareness and they aspire to analyse and develop the operational methods and strategies connected to artistic work. The objective of the doctoral studies is to provide the students with in-depth expertise for research in the fine arts and its significance in society. The goal is for the student to attain the abilities needed in order to complete top quality works of art that reflect artistic maturity and to be able not only to work independently in the field in question, but also to apply the methods of artistic research in the development of the field. CONTACT INFORMATION Professor (100%) Anita Seppä, anita.seppa@uniarts.fi Professor (50%) Jan Kaila, jan.kaila@uniarts.fi Research Coordinator Michaela Bränn, tel , michaela.brann@uniarts.fi Study Coordinator Henri Wegelius, tel , henri.wegelius@uniarts.fi Master s Admission, 24

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27 MAIN ADMISSION 2015 BACHELOR AND MASTER OF FINE ARTS The students admitted in the Main admission are accepted for studies leading to the Master of Fine Arts degree, taking a total of 5.5 years and including the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. The study programme is chosen after being admitted to the Academy, during the first year of studies. 27

28 ADMISSION CRITERIA An applicant who demonstrates talent in fine arts and has an eligible educational background can be accepted to the Academy of Fine Arts to pursue the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and carry on to the Master of Fine Arts degree. The following degrees make an applicant eligible to apply to the Academy, as indicated by the Universities Act (558/2009, 37 ): matriculation examination, a polytechnic Bachelor s degree, a higher vocational qualification, a vocational upper secondary qualification, a vocational qualification awarded on the completion of education of at least three years in duration or a foreign education entitling the applicant to apply for equivalent university studies. The Academy can also decide to accept an applicant without a degree if the Academy deems the applicant to possess suitable cognitive and practical skills for the studies. The artistic abilities expressed by the applicant, the basis for admission in addition to the eligible background studies, are examined through the work samples the applicant presents and the work he/she demonstrates at the admission course. ADMISSION PROCEDURE The basic degree student admission procedure of the Academy of Fine Arts is conducted by the Admission Board and the admission juries, made up of professors and Lecturers of the Academy together with student representatives. The composition of these organs varies from year to year. Members can also be invited from outside the Academy for the admission juries. The admission procedure for the regular admission is divided into two phases. The admission jury for main admission chooses (in the first phase) the applicants to be invited to the admission course, based on the work samples and the applications and their appendices submitted by the applicants. After the admission course, the admission jury selects (in the second phase), the applicants it will propose to the Admission Board, based on the work samples and the work demonstrated by the student at the admission course. The Admission Board then makes the final proposition to the Dean on who should be selected as students for the basic degrees, and the Dean then approves the new students to be admitted at the Academy of Fine Arts. Points are not issued for the work samples or the work during the admission course. APPLICATION PROCEDURE The Main Admission of Academy of Fine Arts are organised as a part of the nation-wide Joint Application to Universities. FIRST PHASE 1. Fill out and submit the electronic application form at Print out a paper copy of your electronic application form. The application period begins on 7 January 2015 and ends on 27 January 2015 at 3 pm Finnish time. If for some reason you cannot fill out the electronic application form on the online service, you can request a paper copy of the form from the Academy of Fine Arts by phone or by mail (Academy of Fine Arts P.O. Box 10. FI UNIARTS, indicate Order for application form on the envelope) or by kuva.hakijapalvelut@uniarts.fi (write application form order to the subject field). Indicate your name, specific postal address and your telephone 28

29 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 number with the order. The paper copy of the application form shall be submitted to the Finnish Academy of Fine Arts, no later than 3 pm Finnish time on 27 January Submit separately during the period of April 2015: A paper copy of the electronic application form The original work samples (no more than five, more detailed instructions below) And the following appendices to the application: of Fine Arts (home delivery). The Academy of Fine Arts will not pay the postage due if home delivery has not been paid for. You must indicate Main admission on the envelope/package of any work samples sent by post/ courier service. Please note! Applications or parts thereof sent by will not be processed. WORK SAMPLES The artworks must express the applicant s aspirations in fine arts. You must include original artworks to allow the admission jury to get the best possible feeling of and insight into the works Main Admission, Master s Admission, Description form for the work samples (you can print out a copy of this form on the student admissions site of the University of the Arts Helsinki, A short motivational letter, in which you describe why you wish to study at the Academy of Fine Arts and what you expect from the studies. NB! You do not need to submit copies of any certificates at this stage. In the Academy of Fine Arts Main Admission only those applicants who get accepted to second phase/invited to the admission course have to deliver certificate copies. Applicants who get invited to the admission course are to bring the certificate copies with them to the admission course. Please note! Check the exact delivery address and delivery times for the work samples and appendices on the student admissions site of the University of the Arts Helsinki If you submit your work samples by post, they must arrive at the address indicated by the Academy of Fine Arts no later than 4:15 pm (Finnish time) on Tuesday 21 April. A postal stamp of that date will not suffice. Should the work samples be sent by post or using a courier service, the sender must see to it that the work samples are delivered at the address provide by the Academy You can submit up to five (5) works. The works can be drawings, paintings, sculptures, prints, and works of photography, video, conceptual or media art. Do not send images of your works, send the original works. Only submit moving image in digital format! Mark your name on every work and detail your work samples on the separate description form for the sample works. (You can print out a copy of this form on the student admissions site of the University of the Arts Helsinki MOVING IMAGE / VIDEOS Edit your material so that the length of all of your works does not exceed three minutes and that all the works can be viewed on a single device. The accepted format for moving image/video works is: A digital file, in H264 compression, saved on a USB device. Please make sure that there is no material saved on the USB device other than your work sample. 29

30 Please note! The applicant s name must be clearly indicated on the USB flash drive; other required information about the work (name of the applicant, completion date, running time, participants and any other important information) can be recorded on a separate document that the applicant encloses with the form listing the sample works. MULTIMEDIA AND ONLINE WORKS Edit demos of these works in moving image. The total length of all the moving image works must not exceed three minutes. LARGE INSTALLATIONS AND OTHER THREE-DIMENSIONAL WORKS The works must be original artworks. If you decide to present printouts of large-scale installations or other three-dimensional work, the maximum number of printouts is 10 (this does not affect the maximum number of 5 works). Make sure you note the number of works and the number of printouts on the description form for the sample works. Every printout must indicate the name of author and the title of work. HOMEPAGES The admission jury will not have the opportunity to look at the applicants homepages. INSURING THE ARTWORKS The Academy is not responsible for the sample works and will not insure them. The Academy is not liable for any possible damage to the works. If you want to insure your work, you must do it at your own expense. RETURNING OF THE WORK SAMPLES If you are not accepted to the second phase (admission course), you must collect your sample works after the names of the invitees are published (check the address and times on the student admissions site of the University of the Arts Helsinki, Applicants invited to the second phase/admission course will collect their sample works and art works done during the admission course only after the final results of the student admission are published (check the address and dates and times on the student admissions site of the University of the Arts Helsinki, If you wish the Academy to mail the works back to you, you must state so in your form for the artworks. You are responsible for the postage (include a sufficient number of stamps in the original delivery). If the works are delivered by airmail to the Academy, they must be packed so that the original package can be reused for mailing the works back. Otherwise the Academy will charge you with the packaging costs ( 20/package). If it is not possible to include postage for returning the works samples, the return freight must be paid, in advance, to the bank account of the University of the Arts Helsinki: Paid to: Taideyliopisto Bank details: FI BIC/SWIFT: NDEAFIHH Reference code: An invoice or other means of proof of the completed bank transfer must be included with the work samples. The work samples will be returned in June, after the student admission results have been published. Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 Main Admission, Master s Admission, 30

31 The Academy cannot store the works. Any uncollected works or works without sufficient reply postage will be destroyed. Check the last returning date and address on the student admissions site of the University of the Arts Helsinki, SECOND PHASE ADMISSION COURSE Information about those accepted into the next phase/invited to the Admission course will be published on Monday 11 May 2015 on the out door of Academy of Fine Arts (Elimäenkatu 25 A, Helsinki, Finland) and on the student admissions site of the University of the Arts Helsinki ( for those applicants who have authorised the publication of their name on the website. The applicants selected for the Admission course will also be sent an invitation to the course by and by post. Other applicants will not receive an / letter informing them of the matter. The admission course will begin on Monday 18 May 2015 and end on Saturday 23 May It is an all-day course with working hours usually from 9 am to 5 pm daily. The attendants must bring the equipment they need (drawing and painting equipment at the minimum). There may be a small fee for the course arrangements and additional materials. During the admission course the attendants are given assignments, whose nature and content change yearly. (You will find examples of Admission course assignments below). SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS If the applicant requires special arrangements at the entrance examination because of a sensory or physical disability or other corresponding reason, he or she must get in touch with the Academy of Fine arts Admissions Office before the end of the application period. To clarify for the need of special arrangements and the nature of the disability or other condition, the applicant must submit a medical certificate by a specialist or other corresponding expert statement to the Academy of Fine arts Admissions Office. To verify a case of dyslexia, a statement by a special needs teacher, psychologist, or a speech pathologist is sufficient. A decision by the Matriculation Examination Board about special arrangements is also sufficient to verify the need for special arrangements. ANNOUNCING THE RESULTS Names of the new students admitted to University of the Arts Helsinki will be published on 3 June Names of the new students of the Academy of Fine Arts will be published on the out door of Academy of Fine Arts (Elimäenkatu 25 A, Helsinki, Finland) and on the student admissions site of the University of the Arts Helsinki ( for those applicants who have authorised the publication of their name on the website. After this, you can also enquire about results of the student admission procedure by phone, by calling All accepted students will also be sent a notification of receiving the study place by post. Other applicants will not receive an / letter informing them of the matter. APPEALS In case an applicant is not satisfied with the results of the student selection, she/he may 31

32 appeal in writing to the Dean of the Academy of Fine Arts within 14 days of the announcing of the results of the admission procedure. ACCEPTING THE STUDY PLACE You can accept a study place using the Studyinfo service, or with the notification included in the letter of acceptance; the latter must be submitted to the Student Admissions Service of the University of the Arts Helsinki. The study place must be accepted no later than 15 July 2015 by 3 pm Finnish time. More information is available at: The contact information and opening hours of the Student Admission Service of the University of the Arts Helsinki for the summer of 2015 will be posted together with the admissions procedure results at the University of the Arts Helsinki s student admissions site at Notifications that arrive after the deadline will not be considered. The notification regarding accepting a study place is binding and cannot be changed or cancelled. A student may, at any given time, have only one right to pursue a degree at the University. When a student accepts a new right to pursue a degree at the University of Arts Helsinki, he or she forfeits any prior study right at the University of the Arts Helsinki. Only for a special reason may the Rector grant an exception to the rule for one study place. (University of the Arts Helsinki Education guidelines, Article 13). ONE-PLACE-PER-STUDENT PROVISION An applicant may accept only one study place in one main subject leading to a higher education degree during any one semester (this provision is for those admissions procedures that are part of the Finnish Joint Application to Universities; the Main Admission to the Academy of Fine Arts is a part of the Joint Application to Universities). A semester is defined as either the autumn semester or the spring semester, the autumn semester starting 1 August and ending 31 December and the spring semester starting 1 January and ending 31 July (The Universities Act, Section 38). ENROLMENT FOR THE FIRST YEAR The enrolment instructions are sent to new students together with the material on being accepted to study. During the first academic year, it is possible to enrol as an absent student only with permission granted by the university. Enrolment as an absent student for the first year is possible only under certain circumstances, such as compulsory or voluntary military service; maternity, paternity or parental leave; illness or other compelling circumstances (study at another educational institution or abroad does not qualify). The right to be absent must be applied for in writing from no later than 15 July The application for the exception is to be submitted together with the application. If necessary, contact the Head of Study Affairs of the University of the Arts Helsinki. This rules is only applicable for study rights granted after 1 August

33 Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 ADMISSION COURSE ASSIGNMENTS The written assignment What I Saw is compulsory and carried out on Tuesday. Choose two or three other assignments and carry them out during the admission course. You can make one or more works on each assignment you choose. The participants are asked to complete works about the themes below. The amount and the medium are free. However, there must be one work, where you have used painting or drawing medium, one work done by using photo or video and one three-dimensional work (sculpture/ installation/performance). Advance assignment: Why do I want to become artist? Max one A4 sheet. Main Admission, Master s Admission, 1. What I Saw. Two short films are screened a couple of times on Tuesday. Write a commentary on what you saw. The assignment is compulsory. 2. Something Familiar, Something Strange. Begin the assignment by visiting the nearby cemetery and beach. Treat your experience with the title in mind. The technique and material are free. 3. Yesterday Now Tomorrow. Carry out the theme in two works that interpret the title in different ways. Both works can consist of one or more parts. 4. Colour. Make a work that analyses colour. Use a disposable camera and integrate one or more photographs into the work. 5. From Material To Image. Interpret sensation freely with the materials and technique of your choice Man and Space 2. Hernesaari 3. Dialogue 4. Nature Morte Approaching painting. Consider the essence of painting. 2. Create/mark/point out a space or react to a space. You are free to explain your solution. If the space is physical, it must be situated in the Kaikukatu 4 facilities. Present the documentation if the space is somewhere else. 3. Use the text enclosed as starting point for an art piece/art pieces. The participants are required to carry out at least one work for each assignment. You can also choose to make several works for an assignment. The technique and the medium are free Surprising combination. Combine two things normally not associated with each other. They can be things of whatever status: characteristics of form, concrete things or abstract phenomena. To elaborate: density refers to form, a French horn is a concrete thing and xenophobia is an abstract phenomenon. The distinctions are not clear-cut. A tulip and a fare- well are concrete things but a tulip is more concrete than a farewell. yet a farewell is less abstract than xenophobia. Sameness can be formal, concrete or abstract. 33

34 You can combine things of the same or different level, for example an outcast with Friday or angular with moist. Here are some examples from poetry. One of Saila Susiluoto s poems is called Rooms of water. Juhana Vähänen poses the question: What is the equivalent of rocket launcher in my everyday surroundings? Karri Kokko has come up with new compound words: a rose loan/moose fingers/scream granny/carousel rust/fixed beast/abstinencetrap. This exercise measures the ability to associate. In the assessment attention will be paid to how unexpected the combination is and on how interesting the results of the comparison are. Creating is about making unexpected comparisons. Show your ability to create something new by juxtaposing old things. 2. Define place/space and your relationship to it. 3. Following theme in a freely chosen method: blackwhite black white black, white black-white black/white Even the smallest thing can change the meaning of the whole, e.g. punctuation in the above. Visualize something that depicts different relations and proportions. 4. Your take on society as an artwork Viivana Online 2. Light 3. Here Complete works on at least two (of the aforementioned) themes. use at least two techniques that you can choose freely. At least one of the works must be a drawing Draw. Freely chosen tool. 2. Recognize the method you use. Choose one of your work samples and do it some other way (with regard to the method, atmosphere, etc.). 3. Create a connection. The teachers in the admission jury will provide more detailed instructions for this assignment orally During the admission course, carry out 1 3 of the following assignments. Free choice of medium. 1. Look around 2. A change 3. About sensing 2014 During the admission course, carry out series of works about 1 3 of the following topics 1. Look around you 2. Change 3. Draw (Free choice of medium) 4. Surprising combination Academy of Fine Arts Admissions 2015 Main Admission, Master s Admission, 34