Tama Art University

The Painting Course is divided into three major areas: Japanese painting, which emphasizes the importance of combining an understanding of tradition with a free and creative apprach to the development of new styles; oil painting, which encourages students to develop their own original and independent studies based on contemporary aesthetics; and printmaking, which invites students to explore the rich possibilities of present-day printing techniques.

The aim of the Sculpture Course is to prompt students to establish their own direction by investigating the relation between art and society, and to communicate on a worldwide level. With changes in global values, contemporary art has become increasingly diverse and it has become more difficult for artists to find a personal direction. In response to this situation, each student concentrates on one area, guided by a specialiist.

The Ceramic, Glass and Metal Works Course is in a position to cover fine arts, design and art theory. Students are expected to consider how handcrafted work using actual materials can be developed further in a society increasingly dominated by virtual reality. Through creating works with ceramics, glass and metal, students learn the characteristics of various materials and the processes they undergo. They are also encouraged to integrate theory and practice in order to realize their creative potential.

The Design Course includes a wide variety of fields to meet the needs of society: graphic design, product design, textile design, environmental design, information design and communication design. In addition to pursuing projects and research in their own areas, students have opportunities to participate in cooperative projects with industrial, governmental and academic bodies. This kind of collaboration encourages students to reflect on the nature of design, experience other viewpoints, develop a broadminded approach, and constantly search for new possibilities.

The Art Science Course covers a broad range of art and culture, and gives instruction in systematic research. Students can pursue their themes at the Art and Anthropology Research Institute and also take part in cutting-edge research activities led by faculty members. They then proceed to combine high-level comprehensive research and their own specialties. The aim of this course is not only to nurture curators and administrtators who will present art to the public, but mediators who will provide a bridge between art and the everyday world.