How to Apply for SVA’s Low-Residency Interdisciplinary MFA Art Practice Program in NYC

# Exploring the MFA Art Practice Program at the School of Visual Arts

The **MFA Art Practice (AP)** program at the **School of Visual Arts (SVA)** offers a unique, holistic approach to artmaking, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and critical thinking. Unlike traditional graduate programs that separate artists by medium or discipline, MFA AP fosters a dynamic creative environment where students engage with diverse approaches, materials, and technologies.

## An Interdisciplinary and Research-Based Approach

MFA Art Practice at SVA is structured to cultivate a **global community of artists and cultural producers** who challenge conventional perspectives in contemporary art. The program encourages students from diverse backgrounds to explore research-driven practices, working across traditional and non-traditional media. By integrating art with critical inquiry, students develop works that push conceptual and technical boundaries.

## Intensive Summer Residency Program

Each year, the program selects a **small cohort of graduate students** who gather at SVA’s **New York City** campus for three intensive summer residency periods. These residencies provide an immersive environment where students collaborate, experiment, and refine their artistic voices.

During these sessions, students work closely with **renowned artists, writers, designers, critics, and curators**, gaining valuable mentorship and insights into contemporary art practice. Faculty members include:

– Angel Abreu
– Xavier Acarin Weiland
– Haseeb Ahmed
– Robin Cembalest
– Jeremy Cohan
– Deanna Evans
– Lia Gangitano
– Beatrice Glow
– Thyrza Nichols Goodeve
– Katya Grokhovsky
– Allison Hewitt Ward
– Iviva Olenick
– Phil Rabovsky
– Stefan Saffer
– Heather Schatz
– Sarah G. Sharp
– Jacquelyn Strycker
– Keioui Keijuan Thomas
– Nicolas Touron
– TUG Collective
– Andrew Woolbright
– **Department Chair**: David A. Ross

Notably, faculty member **Miatta Kawinzi**’s exhibition “**Numma Yah**” at SmackMellon was named one of **Hyperallergic’s Best New York City Art Shows of 2024**.

## Admission Requirements and Application Process

Admission to the **MFA Art Practice program** is highly competitive, with applications considered on a rolling basis. Interested candidates must submit the following materials:

– Undergraduate transcripts (BFA, BA, BS, or international equivalent)
– **Portfolio** showcasing their artistic practice
– **Writing sample**
– **Statement of Purpose** explaining their artistic vision and goals
– **Letters of recommendation**

Given the program’s rigorous and immersive structure, only a **limited number of spots** are available each year.

## Learn More and Apply

For artists looking to expand their practice within a vibrant, interdisciplinary setting, **SVA’s MFA Art Practice program** offers an unparalleled opportunity. Prospective students are encouraged to **schedule a meeting** with an MFA Art Practice representative to discuss the program in detail and gain insights into the **application process**.

For more information, visit the official **[SVA website](https://bit.ly/3Qm6CIK)** and begin your journey toward redefining contemporary art.