

B-A in Painting at Mahila Seva Sadan P.G. College, Prayagraj


Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Painting at Mahila Seva Sadan P.G. College, Prayagraj Prayagraj?
This B.A. Painting program at Mahila Seva Sadan Post Graduate College, affiliated with Prof. Rajendra Singh (Rajju Bhaiya) University, focuses on nurturing creative talent in visual arts. It provides a comprehensive foundation in drawing, painting, art history, and aesthetics, preparing students for diverse roles in the vibrant Indian art scene. The curriculum, aligned with NEP 2020, emphasizes both traditional techniques and contemporary practices, making it highly relevant to evolving artistic trends in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative individuals with a passion for visual expression, seeking a structured academic approach to art. It caters to fresh 10+2 graduates aspiring to a career in fine arts, art education, or related creative industries. It also suits those looking to deepen their artistic skills and knowledge, or potentially transition into art-based professions within India''''s growing cultural sector. No specific art background is strictly prerequisite, though an aptitude for drawing is beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to develop strong artistic skills, a deep understanding of art history, and critical thinking abilities in aesthetics. Career paths in India include professional artist, art teacher, gallery assistant, art restorer, illustrator, and cultural heritage manager. Entry-level salaries range from INR 2-4 LPA, with experienced artists and educators earning significantly more (INR 6-12 LPA+). The program lays a strong foundation for higher studies in Fine Arts or design-related fields.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Observational Drawing- (Semester 1-2)
Consistently practice drawing from life, focusing on still life, nature, and human figures. Dedicate 2-3 hours weekly beyond class time to sketch in a personal sketchbook. Pay attention to proportion, perspective, and tonal values using pencil and charcoal.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Various grades of pencils, Charcoal sticks, Kneaded eraser, Online tutorials (e.g., Draw Mix Paint, Proko), Local art workshops
Career Connection
Strong foundational drawing is crucial for all visual art careers, from illustration to fine art and design, enabling accurate representation and creative expression.
Build a Visual Vocabulary through Art History- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with art history lectures by visiting museums (even virtual ones like Google Arts & Culture), studying key artworks, and maintaining an art history journal. Connect historical movements to practical drawing exercises to understand evolving artistic styles.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Google Arts & Culture, Art history documentaries (e.g., BBC Art of...), Key texts on Indian and Western art history
Career Connection
A strong grasp of art history informs artistic practice, aids in art criticism, and is essential for roles in galleries, museums, and art education.
Participate in Peer Critiques and Local Art Events- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to share artworks and provide constructive feedback. Attend local art exhibitions, college art fests, and cultural events in Prayagraj. Actively observe and discuss artworks with peers and faculty to broaden your artistic perspective.
Tools & Resources
College art club, Local art galleries (e.g., UP State Lalit Kala Akademi exhibits), Art meetups, Social media groups for local artists
Career Connection
Networking and receiving critiques are vital for artistic growth, developing communication skills, and understanding the local art market.
Intermediate Stage
Experiment with Diverse Painting Mediums and Techniques- (Semester 3-5)
Move beyond basic drawing to explore watercolours, acrylics, and oils. Dedicate time to mastering colour mixing, brushwork, and different application techniques. Take initiative to try mixed media and unconventional surfaces.
Tools & Resources
Art supplies stores, YouTube tutorials (e.g., The Mind of Watercolor, Acrylic Painting Techniques), Workshops on specific mediums, Art books
Career Connection
Versatility in mediums expands artistic capabilities, opening doors to various commissions, exhibition opportunities, and commercial art projects.
Develop Thematic Art Projects and Personal Style- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond class assignments, initiate personal projects exploring themes relevant to Indian society, culture, or personal experiences. Focus on developing a unique artistic voice and coherent body of work. Document your process and inspirations.
Tools & Resources
Personal journal, Concept mapping tools, Online artist portfolios (e.g., Behance, ArtStation), Independent research
Career Connection
A distinctive personal style and a strong portfolio are critical for establishing oneself as a professional artist and for gaining recognition in the art world.
Seek Internships or Apprenticeships with Local Artists/Studios- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively search for opportunities to assist established artists, join local art studios, or intern at cultural organizations. Gain hands-on experience in studio management, exhibition setup, and practical art-making in a professional environment.
Tools & Resources
College career services, Local artist networks, Online job portals for creative roles (e.g., ArtJobs, internships on LinkedIn), Direct outreach
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable real-world experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities that are essential for entry into the art industry.
Advanced Stage
Curate a Professional Portfolio and Online Presence- (Semester 5-6)
Systematically select your best artworks, photograph them professionally, and organize them into a cohesive digital and physical portfolio. Create an artist website or a strong social media presence (e.g., Instagram, ArtStation) to showcase your work.
Tools & Resources
High-resolution camera, Photo editing software (Lightroom/Photoshop), Website builders (Wix, Squarespace), Social media platforms, Behance
Career Connection
A strong portfolio and online presence are paramount for artists seeking exhibitions, commissions, residencies, or employment in the creative sector.
Understand Art Market Dynamics and Entrepreneurship- (Semester 5-6)
Research local, national, and international art markets. Attend art fairs, workshops on art marketing, and learn about pricing, sales, and intellectual property rights for artists in India. Consider starting an art business or freelancing.
Tools & Resources
Art market reports, Mentorship from gallerists/experienced artists, Online courses on art entrepreneurship, Legal resources for artists'''' rights
Career Connection
This knowledge is crucial for artists who wish to sell their work, manage their careers independently, or work in art administration and commerce.
Engage in Community Art Projects and Exhibitions- (Semester 5-6)
Participate in college final year exhibitions, local community art initiatives, or submit work to open calls for art shows. Collaborate with other artists or organizations to create public art or contribute to cultural events, building practical experience and visibility.
Tools & Resources
College exhibition committee, Local government art initiatives, NGO art projects, National/state art academies (e.g., Lalit Kala Akademi), Art competition platforms
Career Connection
Public engagement and exhibition experience enhance an artist''''s profile, provide networking opportunities, and contribute to building a reputation within the art community.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 132 (Minimum for BA Degree, with 48 credits from Major Painting subjects) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030101T | Drawing & Painting (Practical) - Drawing (Still Life / Nature Study) | Major Practical | 4 | Still Life Drawing, Nature Study Sketching, Composition Fundamentals, Mediums: Pencil, Charcoal, Observation and Proportion |
| A030102P | Drawing & Painting (Theory) - History of Indian Art (Ancient Period) | Major Theory | 2 | Pre-historic Art (Bhimbetka), Indus Valley Civilization Art, Mauryan Art (Pillars, Sculptures), Shunga & Satavahana Art (Stupas), Kushana & Gupta Art (Mathura, Sarnath, Ajanta) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030201T | Drawing & Painting (Practical) - Drawing (Human Figure / Composition) | Major Practical | 4 | Human Figure Drawing (Live Study), Anatomy for Artists, Composition (Abstract & Non-objective), Mediums: Pencil, Charcoal, Pastel, Rendering and Expression |
| A030202P | Drawing & Painting (Theory) - History of Indian Art (Medieval Period) | Major Theory | 2 | Art of Pala and Sena Dynasties, Sultanate Period Art & Architecture, Mughal Miniature Painting, Rajput Schools of Painting (Mewar, Kishangarh), Pahari School of Painting |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030301T | Drawing & Painting (Practical) - Painting (Nature Study / Still Life) | Major Practical | 4 | Nature Study in Colour, Still Life Painting, Colour Theory and Mixing, Mediums: Water Colour, Poster Colour, Acrylic, Composition and Tonal Harmony |
| A030302P | Drawing & Painting (Theory) - History of Western Art (Ancient to Renaissance) | Major Theory | 2 | Pre-historic & Mesopotamian Art, Egyptian & Greek Art, Roman Art & Architecture, Early Christian & Byzantine Art, Renaissance Art (Italy & Northern) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030401T | Drawing & Painting (Practical) - Painting (Human Figure / Composition) | Major Practical | 4 | Human Figure Painting (Colour), Composition (Imagination & Theme-based), Mediums: Water Colour, Oil Colour, Acrylic, Perspective and Anatomy in Painting, Light, Shade and Colour Rendering |
| A030402P | Drawing & Painting (Theory) - History of Western Art (Modern Period) | Major Theory | 2 | Baroque, Rococo & Neoclassicism, Romanticism & Realism, Impressionism & Post-Impressionism, Expressionism & Cubism, Surrealism & Abstract Art |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030501T | Drawing & Painting (Practical) - Portrait Painting / Composition | Major Practical | 4 | Portraiture from Live Model, Thematic Composition Development, Mediums: Oil, Acrylic, Mixed Media, Light and Shadow in Portraiture, Capturing Expression and Likeness |
| A030502P | Drawing & Painting (Theory) - Aesthetics & Art Criticism | Major Theory | 2 | Definition of Aesthetics and Art, Indian & Western Aesthetic Theories, Elements of Art & Principles of Design, Art Criticism Methodologies, Role of Art Critics |
| A030503T | Drawing & Painting (Practical) - Graphics (Elective) | Major Elective Practical | 4 | Introduction to Printmaking, Woodcut & Linocut Techniques, Etching & Engraving, Screen Printing Basics, Tools, Materials and Editioning |
| A030504P | Drawing & Painting (Theory) - Art Appreciation & Indian Folk Art (Elective) | Major Elective Theory | 2 | Appreciating Visual Arts, Indian Folk Painting Traditions (Madhubani, Warli), Tribal Art Forms of India, Craft Traditions and their Significance, Cultural Context of Indian Folk Art |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030601T | Drawing & Painting (Practical) - Advanced Painting / Project Work | Major Practical | 4 | Independent Art Project Development, Advanced Mediums and Techniques, Portfolio Preparation and Presentation, Theme-based Series Creation, Art Exhibition and Display Strategies |
| A030602P | Drawing & Painting (Theory) - Modern Indian Art | Major Theory | 2 | Bengal School of Art, Artists of Santiniketan (Tagore, Nandalal Bose), Progressive Artists'''' Group, Post-Independence Indian Art, Contemporary Indian Art Trends |
| A030603T | Drawing & Painting (Practical) - Mural Painting (Elective) | Major Elective Practical | 4 | History of Mural Painting, Mural Techniques (Fresco, Tempera, Acrylic), Surface Preparation for Murals, Scale and Proportion in Large-Format Art, Community Art and Public Murals |
| A030604P | Drawing & Painting (Theory) - Art Management & Curatorial Practices (Elective) | Major Elective Theory | 2 | Art Market Dynamics and Economics, Gallery Management and Operations, Exhibition Curation and Design, Art Documentation and Archiving, Art Law and Intellectual Property Rights |




