Course General Description

As artists, observers, and imagemakers, photographers play an influential role in society that profoundly impacts the way we understand the world around us. Photography at MECA emphasizes the importance of visual literacy, composition, process, and light. In addition to learning the techniques of image-making, you’ll also understand the historical and contemporary context from which they are created. This understanding is part of a transformation you’ll experience at MECA as you grow from a casual photographer into an artist. As a Photography major at MECA, you’ll learn how a body of work or a series engages your audience beyond a single image. You’ll experiment with technical and conceptual elements of traditional and contemporary processes, including 35mm, medium-format, large-format, and digital capture. Before you graduate, you’ll possess the skills to create a professional fine arts portfolio, develop an artist statement and resume, establish your own web presence, and create a final thesis exhibition.

School General Description

Located in the heart of the Portland Arts District, Maine College of Art offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts, a Master of Fine Arts in Studio Art, a Master of Arts in Teaching, a Salt Graduate Certificate in Documentary Studies, as well as Continuing Studies for adults and youths, including a Pre-College intensive for high school students. The College has transformed a former department store into the main campus building with vibrant classrooms and studios that are open 24/7. Also located in the Porteous Building, the Institute of Contemporary Art at MECA serves a critical regional role in its commitment to presenting contemporary, provocative work by living artists from Maine and around the globe. The Joanne Waxman Library is one of the largest independent libraries in Northern New England.