

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


Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Painting at Mahila Seva Sadan P.G. College, Prayagraj Prayagraj?
This M.A. Painting program at Mahila Seva Sadan Post Graduate College focuses on providing advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills in fine arts, particularly painting. It delves deep into Indian and Western art history, aesthetics, materials, and contemporary art trends. The Indian art market is experiencing a vibrant growth, driven by a rising collector base and increasing global interest in South Asian art, making specialized skills in painting highly relevant. This program aims to cultivate artists, art historians, and critics equipped for this evolving landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) graduates or B.A. graduates with Drawing & Painting as a subject, who aspire to deepen their understanding and practice of art. It caters to fresh graduates seeking entry into the art world as professional artists, art educators, or art consultants. It also suits art enthusiasts aiming to pursue academic research in art history or explore advanced studio practices, and those looking to build a strong portfolio for future exhibitions or doctoral studies.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India such as professional artists, art educators in schools and colleges, art critics, art historians, and curators. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 2.5 LPA to 5 LPA, growing significantly with experience and artistic recognition. Opportunities also exist in art galleries, museums, and cultural institutions, contributing to the rich artistic heritage of India. The program fosters critical thinking and advanced practical skills essential for sustained growth in the art field.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Art History & Aesthetics- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to deeply understand Indian and Western art history (Ancient to Modern) and aesthetic theories. Create visual timelines, mind maps, and flashcards to consolidate knowledge. Participate in discussions on art criticism.
Tools & Resources
Art history textbooks (e.g., Gardner''''s Art Through the Ages), academic journals, museum virtual tours (National Museum, Delhi)
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge is crucial for art educators, art historians, critics, and for informed artistic practice. It enhances portfolio development by providing context and inspiration.
Intensive Practical Skill Development- (Semester 1-2)
Engage rigorously in all practical sessions, focusing on mastering various mediums (oil, acrylic, watercolor, printmaking) and techniques (still life, portrait, composition). Experiment beyond assignments to develop a personal style.
Tools & Resources
High-quality art supplies, dedicated studio time, online tutorials (YouTube channels of renowned artists), peer critique sessions
Career Connection
A robust practical skillset is fundamental for professional artists, illustrators, and art educators. It forms the core of a compelling artistic portfolio for exhibitions and employment.
Engage in Peer Learning & Local Art Exploration- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss theoretical concepts and critique practical work. Actively visit local art galleries, exhibitions, and artists'''' studios in Prayagraj and nearby cities to understand current art trends and network.
Tools & Resources
WhatsApp groups for peer discussion, local gallery listings, social media for art events, college art club
Career Connection
Peer interaction fosters collaborative skills and broadens artistic perspectives. Local art exposure helps in understanding the regional art market and potential networking opportunities with established artists and galleries.
Intermediate Stage
Specialization in Elective Areas- (Semester 3)
Choose an elective (Graphic Print Making, Mural, Sculpture, or Photography) and delve deeply into its history, techniques, and contemporary applications. Build a mini-portfolio specifically for this specialized area.
Tools & Resources
Specialized workshops (college-run or external), industry software (for photography/graphic design electives), interaction with professionals in the chosen field
Career Connection
Developing a niche skill enhances employability for roles like graphic designer, mural artist, printmaker, or art photographer. It provides a unique selling proposition in the competitive art market.
Develop Commercial Art & Digital Skills- (Semester 3)
Focus on subjects like Advertising & Commercial Art and Computer Graphics & Design. Learn industry-standard software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, CorelDraw) through self-study and practical applications.
Tools & Resources
Online courses (Coursera, Udemy), software trials, graphic design competitions, college computer labs
Career Connection
Essential for career paths in advertising, graphic design, illustration, and digital art, which are highly demanded in India''''s growing digital economy. Enhances freelance opportunities.
Initiate Art Research & Critical Writing- (Semester 3)
Begin exploring topics for your dissertation. Practice art criticism and appreciation by writing reviews of exhibitions or articles on art historical themes. Develop a strong academic writing style.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), art magazines (e.g., Art India), faculty guidance
Career Connection
Crucial for aspiring art historians, critics, curators, and academics. Strong research and writing skills are also valuable for grant applications and project proposals.
Advanced Stage
Execute & Refine Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Meticulously plan and execute your final dissertation or practical project, integrating research methodology with artistic output. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and refine your work for impactful presentation.
Tools & Resources
Research supervision, art materials, academic writing guides, presentation software
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation/project is a cornerstone for academic progression (Ph.D.) or a strong portfolio piece for professional art practice, showcasing depth of knowledge and artistic capability.
Build a Professional Portfolio & Online Presence- (Semester 4)
Compile your best practical works and project documentation into a cohesive professional portfolio. Create an online presence (personal website, Instagram, ArtStation) to showcase your art and build a network.
Tools & Resources
Portfolio websites (Behance, ArtStation), social media platforms, high-quality photography of artworks, professional networking events
Career Connection
Essential for attracting galleries, clients, and employers. A strong portfolio is critical for artists seeking exhibitions, commissions, or positions in the art industry.
Prepare for Art Management & Entrepreneurship- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in workshops or seminars on art management, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Develop a basic business plan for an art venture or a marketing strategy for your own art practice.
Tools & Resources
Business incubators (if available), mentorship from established artists/gallery owners, books on art entrepreneurship
Career Connection
Equips graduates to manage their own art careers, open galleries, or work in art administration, fostering self-reliance and business acumen in the Indian art market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.F.A. or B.A. with Drawing & Painting as a subject with minimum 40% marks in the relevant subject (as per Mahila Seva Sadan PG College official website)
Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPP 101 | History of Indian Painting (Ancient & Medieval) | Core | 4 | Pre-historic Art, Indus Valley Art, Ajanta Painting, Bagh Painting, Buddhist & Jain Manuscripts, Pala & Apabhransha Painting |
| MPP 102 | Aesthetics (Indian & Western) | Core | 4 | Indian Aesthetics (Rasa Theory, Shadanga), Western Aesthetics (Greek, Renaissance), Modern Art Movements (Impressionism, Cubism), Philosophy of Art, Art and Beauty |
| MPP 103 | Material and Methods (Applied) | Core | 4 | Ground Preparation for Painting, Painting Mediums (Tempera, Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor), Surface Preparation (Canvas, Paper, Wood), Conservation and Restoration Basics, Framing and Presentation |
| MPP 104 | Graphic Print Making/Mural/Sculpture/Photography (Elective) | Elective | 4 | History of Print Making, Techniques (Woodcut, Linocut, Etching), Printmaking Materials, Health and Safety in Printmaking, Contemporary Printmakers |
| MPP 105 | Practical (Still Life/Portrait/Live Study/Composition) | Practical | 4 | Still Life Drawing and Painting, Portrait Studies, Live Model Drawing, Composition Techniques, Mediums (Pencil, Charcoal, Pastel, Watercolor) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPP 201 | History of Indian Painting (Mughal, Rajput & Modern) | Core | 4 | Mughal Painting Schools, Rajput Painting (Mewar, Jaipur, Kangra), Pahari Schools, Bengal School of Art, Company School, Modern Indian Art Movements |
| MPP 202 | Western Art History (Renaissance to Modern Art) | Core | 4 | Renaissance Art, Baroque and Rococo Art, Neoclassicism and Romanticism, Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, Cubism and Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism |
| MPP 203 | Modern Trends in Indian & Western Art | Core | 4 | Contemporary Indian Art, Post-Modernism, Performance Art, Installation Art, Digital Art and Media, Photography in Art |
| MPP 204 | Graphic Print Making/Mural/Sculpture/Photography (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Advanced Printmaking Techniques, Multi-color Prints, Experimental Printmaking, Digital Printmaking, Serigraphy, Lithography |
| MPP 205 | Practical (Landscape/Composition/Abstract/Figure Drawing) | Practical | 4 | Landscape Painting, Abstract Composition, Figure Drawing and Anatomy, Outdoor Sketching, Mixed Media Experiments |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPP 301 | Advertising & Commercial Art | Core | 4 | Principles of Advertising, Marketing Communication, Branding and Visual Identity, Graphic Design Software (CorelDraw, Photoshop), Layout Design and Typography |
| MPP 302 | History of Art (Contemporary Indian & Western Art) | Core | 4 | Indian Art After 1947, Progressive Artists'''' Group, Delhi Shilpi Chakra, Contemporary Western Art Movements, Art Market and Patronage |
| MPP 303 | Art Criticism & Appreciation | Core | 4 | Theories of Art Criticism, Role of the Art Critic, Methods of Art Appreciation, Semiotics in Art, Curatorial Practices |
| MPP 304 | Graphic Print Making/Mural/Sculpture/Photography (Elective) | Elective | 4 | History of Mural Art, Mural Techniques (Fresco, Tempera, Mosaic), Site-specific Installations, Public Art Projects, Planning and Execution of Murals |
| MPP 305 | Practical (Portraiture/Human Figure/Composition) | Practical | 4 | Advanced Portraiture, Human Figure Studies, Anatomy for Artists, Large Scale Compositions, Expressive Drawing Techniques |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPP 401 | Computer Graphics & Design | Core | 4 | Digital Imaging Principles, Vector and Raster Graphics, Image Manipulation Software, Web Design Basics, Animation Principles |
| MPP 402 | Research Methodology & Dissertation | Core | 4 | Research Design in Art, Data Collection Methods, Academic Writing and Citation, Art Historical Research, Dissertation Structure and Formatting |
| MPP 403 | Art Management & Entrepreneurship | Core | 4 | Art Market Dynamics, Gallery Management, Exhibition Planning, Fundraising for Arts, Art Business Models, Intellectual Property in Art |
| MPP 404 | Dissertation/Project | Project | 4 | In-depth Research Project, Original Artistic Production, Written Thesis/Documentation, Presentation and Defense, Problem Identification and Solution |
| MPP 405 | Practical (Advanced Specialization/Viva Voce) | Practical | 4 | Advanced Studio Practice, Portfolio Development, Exhibition Preparation, Viva Voce (Oral Examination), Individual Art Projects and Critique |




