

BACHELOR-OF-FINE-ARTS in Applied Art at Malik Sandal Institute of Art and Architecture


Vijayapura, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Applied Art at Malik Sandal Institute of Art and Architecture Vijayapura?
This Applied Art program at Malik Sandal Institute of Art and Architecture focuses on merging artistic creativity with commercial applications, relevant to India''''s burgeoning creative and advertising industries. The program cultivates practical skills in areas like graphic design, illustration, and multimedia, preparing students for diverse roles in a market that increasingly values visual communication. Its unique differentiator lies in blending traditional art forms with modern digital tools to cater to contemporary industry demands.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a passion for art and design, seeking entry into creative fields like advertising, publishing, and digital media. It also caters to aspiring artists who wish to channel their creativity into commercially viable applications. Candidates from diverse academic backgrounds, especially those with strong foundational drawing and creative skills, are well-suited, aiming for careers that blend artistic expression with problem-solving for real-world clients.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India such as graphic designer, illustrator, animator, visualiser, web designer, and art director. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Graduates find opportunities in advertising agencies, design studios, media houses, and IT companies with design teams. The program helps align with industry certifications in software like Adobe Creative Suite, enhancing employability and growth trajectories.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Artistic Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to mastering foundational skills like drawing, sketching, color theory, and composition. Actively participate in all studio practicals, seeking constructive feedback from faculty and peers. Practice regularly outside class hours to build confidence and refine techniques. Utilize college art supplies and studio space effectively.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Drawing tablets, Art supplies, College art studio
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are the bedrock for all applied art disciplines, essential for future specialization and professional quality work demanded by the Indian creative industry.
Explore Digital Art Tools Early- (Semester 1-2)
Familiarize yourself with essential digital art software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Attend introductory workshops, follow online tutorials (e.g., from YouTube channels like ''''GFXMentor'''' or ''''Piximperfect''''), and try to recreate digital artworks. Don''''t be afraid to experiment with different tools and techniques.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Affinity Designer, Krita
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital tools is non-negotiable for modern applied artists in India''''s technology-driven design market, opening doors to graphic design, web design, and animation roles.
Develop a Visual Diary & Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Maintain a daily visual diary or sketchbook to document observations, ideas, and inspirations. Engage in peer learning by discussing projects, sharing techniques, and critically evaluating each other''''s work. Form study groups to collectively solve design challenges and learn from diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Physical sketchbook, Pinterest, Behance (for inspiration), Peer study groups
Career Connection
Cultivates a habit of continuous ideation and critical thinking, crucial for creative problem-solving, and builds a supportive network for future collaborations in the Indian art scene.
Intermediate Stage
Build a Diverse Portfolio of Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to work on diverse projects beyond coursework, including college event posters, club logos, or small freelance assignments. Focus on showcasing a range of skills: illustration, branding, typography, and digital layouts. Document each project professionally with mock-ups and process explanations.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Dribbble, Adobe Portfolio, Client projects (volunteer/paid)
Career Connection
A strong, varied portfolio is the primary currency for applied artists in India for internships and job applications, demonstrating practical skills and creative problem-solving abilities to potential employers.
Engage in Workshops and Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Participate in college-organized workshops, industry seminars, and design competitions (e.g., those hosted by design forums, advertising agencies). These provide exposure to industry trends, networking opportunities, and a platform to test skills against peers. Focus on learning from expert feedback.
Tools & Resources
Design competitions (e.g., Kyoorius, Spikes Asia student awards), Industry webinars, College design clubs
Career Connection
Enhances practical skills, builds professional networks, and provides a competitive edge in the Indian creative job market, often leading to internships or direct employment opportunities.
Start Learning Marketing & Branding Basics- (Semester 3-5)
Begin understanding the fundamentals of marketing, consumer behavior, and branding principles. This involves reading relevant books or articles, following design blogs focused on branding, and observing successful Indian and international brand campaigns. Understand how art serves business objectives.
Tools & Resources
Books on branding/marketing design, LinkedIn Learning courses, Industry magazines like Campaign India
Career Connection
Applied artists who understand business and marketing are highly valued in agencies and companies across India, allowing them to create more effective and impactful designs aligned with client goals.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Industry Internship- (Semester 6-7)
Secure at least one substantive internship with an advertising agency, design studio, or a corporate design department. Focus on gaining hands-on experience, understanding workflow, and building a professional network. Document your contributions and learn from senior designers.
Tools & Resources
Internship portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), College placement cell, Direct company applications
Career Connection
Crucial for industry readiness and often a direct pathway to pre-placement offers or strong references, highly valued by Indian recruiters in the competitive design sector.
Develop a Specialized Personal Brand & Online Presence- (Semester 7-8)
Refine your unique artistic style and create a professional online portfolio (website or strong Behance/Dribbble profile) showcasing your best work. Actively engage on professional platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals, recruiters, and potential clients. Craft a compelling resume tailored for creative roles.
Tools & Resources
Personal website builder (Wix, Squarespace), Behance, LinkedIn, Professional headshots
Career Connection
Essential for standing out in the Indian job market, attracting recruiters, and establishing credibility as a professional applied artist. A strong online presence is your digital resume.
Prepare for Professional Interviews & Test- (Semester 8)
Practice mock interviews focusing on discussing your portfolio, creative process, and problem-solving approaches. Be prepared for practical design tests, which are common in Indian agencies, demonstrating your software proficiency and ideation skills under pressure. Seek feedback from career services or mentors.
Tools & Resources
Mock interview sessions, Online design test platforms, Portfolio review sessions
Career Connection
Directly impacts placement success by enhancing confidence and readiness for the rigorous interview and practical testing processes commonly employed by creative employers in India.



