Master of Arts and Media - Visual Cultures, Curating and Contemporary Art

Program Overview

The Master of Arts and Media in Visual Cultures, Curating, and Contemporary Art at Aalto University offers an interdisciplinary approach to art, culture, and curatorial practices, preparing students for careers in the art world, museum sectors, galleries, and other cultural institutions. The program combines theoretical and practical knowledge, focusing on the critical analysis of contemporary art, curatorial strategies, and the relationship between art, culture, and society. Students gain a deep understanding of the history and development of visual cultures while also developing the skills necessary to manage and curate exhibitions, collections, and art-related events. The program emphasizes the role of curators as facilitators of dialogue between artists, audiences, and cultural institutions, helping to shape the discourse around contemporary art.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the Master of Arts and Media in Visual Cultures, Curating, and Contemporary Art is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both the theory and practice of curating and visual culture. Core courses include subjects like art history, critical theory, cultural studies, and curatorial practices. Students explore contemporary art movements and trends while learning about the methodologies used to analyze and interpret art in a variety of cultural contexts. The program also offers practical training in exhibition design, collection management, and the development of art-related events. Additionally, students are encouraged to pursue independent projects and internships with museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, applying their knowledge to real-world scenarios. Elective courses allow students to explore topics such as museum studies, art ethics, and digital curation.

Research Focus: Research in the Master of Arts and Media in Visual Cultures, Curating, and Contemporary Art program at Aalto University focuses on the intersection of art, culture, and society. Key research areas include curatorial methodologies, the role of art institutions in shaping cultural narratives, and the impact of contemporary art on social and political issues. Students engage in critical research projects that investigate the evolving role of art and curating in a globalized world. Topics such as art in public spaces, digital art curation, and the relationship between art, technology, and activism are explored in depth. The program also encourages interdisciplinary research that combines art with fields such as sociology, history, philosophy, and media studies. Faculty members are active researchers in the field, and students are encouraged to contribute to ongoing scholarly discussions through their own research projects.

Industry Engagement: Aalto University’s Master of Arts and Media in Visual Cultures, Curating, and Contemporary Art benefits from strong connections with the art and cultural industries. The program encourages students to engage with professionals in the field through internships, collaborations, and site visits. Students have the opportunity to work with leading museums, galleries, art festivals, and cultural institutions both in Finland and abroad. These partnerships provide students with hands-on experience in curating exhibitions, managing collections, and organizing art-related events. Industry professionals frequently visit the university to give guest lectures, lead workshops, and mentor students, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the demands of the contemporary art world. The program’s practical approach allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts, developing valuable skills that enhance their employability in the global art sector.

Global Perspective: Aalto University’s Master of Arts and Media in Visual Cultures, Curating, and Contemporary Art emphasizes a global perspective on the practice of curating and art criticism. The program attracts students from diverse cultural backgrounds, offering a rich, international learning environment where ideas and perspectives from different parts of the world can be exchanged. Students are encouraged to explore the global nature of contemporary art, including its role in addressing global issues such as migration, climate change, and social justice. The program’s international collaborations with art institutions, galleries, and museums provide students with opportunities to study abroad, attend global art events, and engage with art movements from a wide range of cultural contexts. Aalto’s global network helps students build international connections, preparing them to work in the global art scene and contribute to shaping the future of contemporary art.