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PHD in Drawing And Painting at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Drawing and Painting at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith Varanasi?
This Drawing and Painting PhD program at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith focuses on advanced research in visual arts, encompassing theoretical, historical, and practical dimensions. It emphasizes original scholarly contributions to the field, critically examining traditional forms and contemporary artistic expressions within the rich Indian cultural context. The program differentiates itself by fostering deep analytical and creative inquiry, essential for academic leadership and innovative artistic practice.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Master''''s graduates in Fine Arts, particularly Drawing and Painting, seeking to pursue advanced academic careers, become art historians, critics, curators, or independent artists with a strong research foundation. It is suited for individuals passionate about contributing new knowledge to the visual arts, critically engaging with art theory, and exploring diverse artistic methodologies. Candidates should possess a strong inclination for independent research and scholarly writing.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to emerge as accomplished researchers, educators, and art practitioners. India-specific career paths include professorships in universities and colleges, art criticism and journalism, curatorial roles in museums and galleries, and independent artistic careers informed by rigorous academic inquiry. While specific salary ranges vary, entry-level academic positions can start from INR 5-8 LPA, growing significantly with experience and publications. Graduates also contribute to preserving and advancing India''''s rich artistic heritage.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Academic Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate the first year to rigorously understanding research methodologies, statistical tools if applicable, and academic writing conventions. Attend workshops on thesis structuring, citation styles, and ethical research practices. Focus on developing a strong research proposal during this phase.
Tools & Resources
UGC-NET/JRF study materials for Research Aptitude, Online academic writing courses (e.g., Coursera, NPTEL), Zotero/Mendeley for citation management
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is critical for successful thesis completion and will be highly valued in academic and research roles.
Comprehensive Literature Review and Gap Identification- (Semester 1-2)
Conduct an exhaustive review of existing literature in Drawing and Painting, both nationally and internationally. Utilize university library resources, online academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), and museum archives. Identify significant research gaps to formulate a unique and impactful research question for your thesis.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, Shodhganga for Indian theses, Online art history and theory journals, Museum and gallery archives
Career Connection
Developing critical analytical skills and identifying novel research areas strengthens your profile as a specialized expert, crucial for academic positions and contributing to the field.
Engage in Departmental Seminars and Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental research seminars, presentations by senior PhD scholars, and faculty lectures. Form study groups with peers to discuss research ideas, methodologies, and share feedback on literature reviews. This fosters a collaborative learning environment and broadens intellectual horizons.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Peer research groups, University research colloquiums
Career Connection
Networking within the academic community and learning from diverse perspectives is vital for future collaborations and securing academic mentorship and positions.
Intermediate Stage
Present Research at National/International Conferences- (Year 2-3)
Prepare and present your research findings (even preliminary ones) at national and select international conferences related to art history, visual arts, or aesthetics. This provides valuable feedback, enhances your presentation skills, and builds your academic network.
Tools & Resources
Conference alert websites, Funding opportunities for travel grants, Academic peer groups for presentation practice
Career Connection
Conference presentations are essential for building an academic CV, gaining recognition, and making connections that can lead to post-doctoral opportunities or faculty positions.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Year 2-3)
Convert chapters or significant segments of your research into publishable articles for peer-reviewed national and international journals. Seek guidance from your supervisor on target journals and manuscript preparation. Aim for at least 1-2 publications during this stage.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE list journals, Elsevier, Springer, Taylor & Francis art journals, Supervisor guidance
Career Connection
Publications are a fundamental requirement for academic appointments and promotions in India. They demonstrate your research productivity and impact.
Cultivate Interdisciplinary Connections in Arts- (Year 2-3)
Explore connections between Drawing and Painting research and related fields like history, philosophy, sociology, or digital humanities. Attend workshops or courses outside your immediate department to broaden your methodological toolkit and conceptual framework. This can lead to innovative research directions.
Tools & Resources
Cross-departmental seminars, University workshops on digital humanities or cultural studies, Collaborative research projects
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary research is increasingly valued in academia, opening up diverse funding opportunities and teaching prospects in broader humanities programs.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Thesis Submission and Defense- (Year 3-4)
Focus intensely on refining your thesis chapters, ensuring logical flow, coherent arguments, and impeccable academic standards. Prepare thoroughly for the Pre-PhD presentation and final Viva-Voce, practicing answering challenging questions about your research and its contributions.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor for regular feedback, Mock viva sessions with departmental faculty, Review of successful theses from Shodhganga
Career Connection
A well-written and successfully defended thesis is the culmination of your PhD, directly leading to the degree and validating your expertise for all career paths.
Develop Teaching Portfolio and Grant Writing Skills- (Year 3-4)
If aspiring for academia, gain teaching experience by assisting professors, leading tutorials, or co-teaching a course. Attend workshops on developing teaching pedagogies and preparing a teaching portfolio. Simultaneously, explore basic grant writing for post-doctoral fellowships or research projects.
Tools & Resources
Departmental teaching assistant opportunities, UGC postdoctoral fellowships, Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) grants (if applicable to art history)
Career Connection
Teaching experience and grant writing skills are crucial for securing faculty positions and independent research funding in the Indian academic landscape.
Network with Industry Professionals and Alumni- (Year 3-4 and beyond)
Actively connect with artists, gallery owners, curators, and cultural policymakers through art festivals, exhibitions, and alumni networks. Seek mentorship and insights into non-academic career opportunities in the arts sector. Leverage university career services for guidance.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Art market events and fairs in India, University alumni association events
Career Connection
Building a robust professional network is indispensable for discovering job opportunities, collaborations, and gaining insights into diverse career paths beyond traditional academia.
