The American Academy of Art continues to build on its excellent
reputation of educating successful, professional artists. The
Academy believes an artist must develop mastery of materials and
understand how to depict the world in a realistic style. Since
1923, the American Academy of Art has prepared students to enter
leading galleries, advertising agencies and design and animation
studios.
The Academy is located in the heart of Chicago's education and
museum district. The campus includes the Bill L. Parks Gallery
with revolving exhibitions and the Irving Shapiro Library
collection of specialized art resources. The American Academy of
Art maintains a career services office to assist students and
graduates with their job search.
BFA in 3D Animation and Modeling
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In the 3D program, students use software to create
three-dimensional models and animations using lighting effects,
camera angles, motion studies, digital video and sound. The 3D
program trains students in both traditional skills including
sculpture and drawing and 3D digital skills.
BFA in Design (Graphic Design)
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In this program, students focus on developing analytical skills
and a critical eye for graphic design. Students work in teams to
accomplish projects in print design, advertising design and
environmental graphics. Students produce professional quality
projects including package design, posters and logos.
BFA in Illustration
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The illustration program stresses mastery in all kinds of drawing
techniques and media so that students can create images that
convey emotions, tell a story or market a product or idea.
Students study various types of illustrations including those
used by editorials, advertising and children's books. Each
students develops an illustration style, a consistent body of
work, and prepares a professional portfolio.
BFA in Life Drawing
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Traditionally, professional artists are trained by drawing the
human figure. The life drawing program emphasizes anatomical
structure and its role in enhancing accuracy, rhythm and meaning
through projects involving the full figure, portraiture and
drapery studies. Attention is paid to the study of the styles and
techniques of representational figurative work.
BFA in Multimedia/Web Design
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Students learn the concepts, strategies and techniques of working
with digital media through the use and control of typography,
images, animation, sound and digital video. Students develop the
conceptual framework to produce digital media along with the
historical, legal and social issues surrounding digital
publishing. Ultimately, students incorporate design principles
and web authoring tools into practical web production.
BFA in Painting
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The painting program emphasizes working with traditional oil
painting techniques from life with special attention to painting
the figure. Students learn composition, light and shadow, lines
and edges, and depth of forms. The courses inspire the student to
build an artistic style while building strong traditional skills.
BFA in Watercolor Painting
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The watercolor program is tailored towards developing a high
level of skill in this unique medium. Students develop mastery in
drawing, composition, creativity and technical refinement. Color,
light and translucency are some of the qualities explored as the
student strives to attain a professional body of work.
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