MFA Student Profile
Bethany Kalk, Painting / Installation
Why did you choose MCAD for your MFA?
The facilities were a huge reason for my coming here. Although I am primarily a painter and drawer, I also utilize new technology, and that's one area where MCAD excels.
The computer labs are up to date with all the latest software and hardware. The 3D shop has full-time staff to teach you how to use their machines and other resources, enabling me to output my ideas effectively. And the school is open 24/7, which means that when I need to be in the lab or studio until 4 a.m., I can be. When you're juggling work and school, that's key.
How else have you utilized the resources at MCAD?
I have taken full advantage of the fact that MFA students here can audit any undergraduate class that is pertinent to their program. Even though I've chosen to focus on fine arts, my work has evolved in such a way that I need to know how to write computer code for interactive installations. So I audited an undergraduate programming course to gain those tech skills.
My mentor, Barbara Bell Smith, has also been an invaluable resource. When I began my MFA program, I knew what medium I wanted to focus on, but also knew that I had to be flexible because I anticipated involving film and temporary installation to support my 2D work. So I wanted to find a mentor who was very competent in his or her chosen medium, yet was as deeply interested in content as with technique. I found that mentor in Barbara.
What kind of student is right for the MCAD MFA program?
The right students are determined but open-minded. They have to be willing to take constructive criticism (even when it's harsh) as well as to offer it to others. Confidence is great, but egos are not appreciated. We want an atmosphere of encouragement and respect.