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B-F-A in Printmaking at Guru Nanak Dev University
Amritsar, Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is Printmaking at Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar?
This Printmaking program at Guru Nanak Dev University focuses on developing advanced artistic and technical skills in various printmaking processes. It provides a comprehensive understanding of traditional and contemporary techniques like intaglio, lithography, screenprinting, and relief printing. The program emphasizes creative expression, experimentation with materials, and a strong theoretical foundation in art history and aesthetics, preparing students for diverse roles in the vibrant Indian art and design industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring artists, designers, and creative individuals passionate about visual arts and print media. It suits fresh graduates with a 10+2 background who are keen to explore traditional and modern printmaking techniques. Working professionals in related art fields looking to specialize or upskill, as well as career changers with a strong artistic aptitude, will find the program enriching. Prior art experience or a portfolio can be beneficial for applicants.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue fulfilling careers as professional printmakers, fine artists, graphic designers, illustrators, art educators, or studio assistants. In India, there is a growing demand for skilled print artists in galleries, art houses, publishing, and advertising. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced artists earning significantly more, especially with gallery representation or commission work. The program also supports growth into art conservation and curatorial roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Drawing & Composition- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to daily practice of drawing from observation, life drawing, and understanding principles of composition. This forms the bedrock for all visual arts.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, charcoal, pencils, online tutorials from NPTEL on basic drawing, peer critiques
Career Connection
Strong drawing skills are fundamental for any visual artist, graphic designer, or illustrator, ensuring better portfolio development and industry acceptance.
Explore Basic Printmaking Techniques- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with introductory printmaking practicals. Experiment with different materials and tools for relief printing (linocut, woodcut) and basic intaglio. Understand the safety protocols and unique properties of each medium.
Tools & Resources
Department labs, printmaking presses, safety equipment, instructional videos on techniques, local printmaking workshops
Career Connection
Early mastery of diverse techniques broadens artistic vocabulary and makes one more versatile for studio work or commissioned projects.
Cultivate Art History Appreciation- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond lectures, delve into assigned art history readings. Visit local art museums and galleries (like Amritsar''''s Partition Museum, Khalsa College Art Gallery) to see historical and contemporary artworks.
Tools & Resources
University library, online art archives (e.g., Google Arts & Culture), local art exhibitions, documentary films on art movements
Career Connection
A strong grasp of art history informs artistic practice, helps in contextualizing one''''s work, and is crucial for roles in art criticism, curating, or teaching.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Specialization in Printmaking- (Semester 3-5)
Focus intensely on refining skills in chosen printmaking methods (e.g., lithography, screenprinting, etching). Experiment with combining techniques and developing a unique artistic style within printmaking.
Tools & Resources
Advanced studio equipment, specialized inks and papers, mentorship from faculty, participation in university-level art competitions
Career Connection
Specializing builds a distinctive portfolio, crucial for showcasing expertise to galleries, potential clients, or for pursuing higher studies in a specific printmaking discipline.
Seek Industry Exposure through Internships/Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively look for internships with established printmaking studios, art galleries, or design agencies. Attend printmaking workshops and seminars (e.g., organized by Lalit Kala Akademi) to learn from practicing artists.
Tools & Resources
University career services, professional art networks, online platforms for internships, art event listings
Career Connection
Internships provide real-world experience, build professional networks, and can often lead to future job opportunities or collaborations in the Indian art market.
Build a Digital Portfolio & Online Presence- (Semester 3-5)
Start documenting all artworks digitally in high resolution. Create a professional online portfolio (e.g., Behance, ArtStation, personal website) to showcase your work and artistic journey.
Tools & Resources
High-resolution camera, Adobe Photoshop/Lightroom, website builders (Wix, Squarespace), social media platforms (Instagram for artists)
Career Connection
An online portfolio is essential for artists today, reaching a global audience, attracting commissions, and for applications to residencies or galleries.
Advanced Stage
Execute a Strong Capstone Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6-8)
Invest deeply in the final project or dissertation, demonstrating advanced skills, conceptual clarity, and original artistic vision in printmaking. Aim for a cohesive body of work.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, advanced studio access, research resources, critical review sessions, peer feedback
Career Connection
The capstone project is the highlight of your academic portfolio, a key piece for job interviews, gallery submissions, or entrance into prestigious art programs.
Develop Professional Networking & Exhibition Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Actively network with artists, gallerists, curators, and collectors at art fairs, exhibitions, and university events. Learn how to prepare artworks for exhibition, write artist statements, and market your work.
Tools & Resources
Art fair calendars, artist directories, workshops on professional practice, faculty connections, alumni network
Career Connection
Networking is vital for visibility, securing exhibitions, commissions, and establishing oneself as a professional artist in the competitive Indian art scene.
Plan for Post-Graduation Pathways- (Semester 6-8)
Research potential career paths, further education (M.F.A.), artist residencies, or entrepreneurial ventures in the arts. Prepare applications, update portfolios, and seek career counseling.
Tools & Resources
University career counseling, online platforms for art opportunities, alumni testimonials, informational interviews with professionals
Career Connection
Proactive planning ensures a smoother transition from academic life to a professional art career, whether as a practicing artist, educator, or art administrator.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 from any stream with 45% marks from CBSE/PSEB or any other equivalent examination recognized by GNDU. (Source: UG Admissions Guide 2024-25, GNDU)
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 354 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFC-101 | Punjabi (Compulsory) / Punjab History & Culture (Special) - I | Compulsory Theory | 4 | |
| BFC-102 | English (Compulsory) - I | Compulsory Theory | 4 | |
| BFT-103 | History of Art - I | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-104 | Drawing and Composition - I | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-105 | Printmaking (Major Practical - Intro.) - I | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-106 | Design - I | Core Practical | 10 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFC-201 | Punjabi (Compulsory) / Punjab History & Culture (Special) - II | Compulsory Theory | 4 | |
| BFC-202 | English (Compulsory) - II | Compulsory Theory | 4 | |
| BFT-203 | History of Art - II | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-204 | Drawing and Composition - II | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-205 | Printmaking (Major Practical) - II | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-206 | Design - II | Core Practical | 10 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFT-301 | History of Art - III | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-302 | Drawing and Composition - III | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-303 | Printmaking (Major Practical) - III | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-304 | Printmaking (Minor Practical - Intro.) - III | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-305 | Aesthetics - III | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-306 | Environmental Studies (Compulsory) | Compulsory Theory | 4 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFT-401 | History of Art - IV | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-402 | Drawing and Composition - IV | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-403 | Printmaking (Major Practical) - IV | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-404 | Printmaking (Minor Practical) - IV | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-405 | Aesthetics - IV | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-406 | Drug Abuse: Problem, Management & Prevention (Compulsory) | Compulsory Theory | 4 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFT-501 | History of Art - V | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-502 | Printmaking (Major Practical) - V | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-503 | Drawing and Composition - V | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-504 | Printmaking (Minor Practical) - V | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-505 | Printmaking (Theory) - V | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-506 | Computer Graphics (Practical) - V | Core Practical | 10 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFT-601 | History of Art - VI | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-602 | Printmaking (Major Practical) - VI | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-603 | Drawing and Composition - VI | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-604 | Printmaking (Minor Practical) - VI | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-605 | Printmaking (Theory) - VI | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-606 | Computer Graphics (Practical) - VI | Core Practical | 10 |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFP-701 | Drawing and Composition (Practical) - VII | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-702 | Printmaking (Major Practical) - VII | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-703 | Printmaking (Minor Practical) - VII | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-704 | Printmaking (Theory) - VII | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFT-705 | Aesthetics - VII | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-706 | Indian Culture (Theory) - VII | Core Theory | 4 |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFP-801 | Drawing and Composition (Practical) - VIII | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-802 | Printmaking (Major Practical) - VIII | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-803 | Printmaking (Minor Practical) - VIII | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFP-804 | Printmaking (Theory) - VIII | Core Theory | 4 | |
| BFP-805 | Project Work/Dissertation | Core Practical | 10 | |
| BFT-806 | Art Appreciation (Theory) - VIII | Core Theory | 4 |
