Sunday, July 27, 2014

School of the Art Institute of Chicago - add on


AIC entrance

SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO
added thoughts

please visit my original SAIC post on June 27, 2014 for more detailed information


In the mail yesterday, Mimi received this packet of information from SAIC - wrapped up in a rubbery orange package!

Making and meaning is a reflection of their "Core Values" which the school takes very seriously about being involved with the community around you and your impact on the world.  The school also uses the word 'core' in describing a students first year.  Core studio is trying a wide array of art media, not just sewing but performance art and 3-D printingOne of the booklets sent called the first year "an ideal preparation" which includes with the core studios art history, and a studio elective where you can work "in the medium you love or try something new".  There is so much flexibility in this structured first year!
First year students are required to take a Research Studio class - this is a "making" course where Mimi would research methods on fashion is made.  She would also take a class called "Wired" which focuses on the laptop as a design tool.
5cf22119We were just talking about a drawing app that for her next phone upgrade - with our family plan, she's got some time to think about it!  Lastly in the first year, students will take a seminar class. To me seminars are for listening but this one is for writing and composition.  Again with the flexibility - students can write about what interest them!  Some topic examples are: Dream Logic, Movies on American History, and Mammals/Non Verbal Clues.  The seniors have a intensive mentoring program to help prepare the students for the industry they are studying for.  The list of alumni is impressive!  From Halston, Laurence Steele to Cynthia Rowley in Fashion - as seen on Project Runway
Cynthia Rowley is second from the left
Georgia O'Keeffe, Ivan Albright and Edward Gorey are painters alumniand two of my favorite authors are alumni of SAIC - David Sedaris and Audrey Niffengger - she graduated as a painter and print maker but went on to become an best selling author who's book Brad Pitt made into a movie!

One of the greatest things for the students is all the hands on learning and displaying.  SAIC has a museum for the school which displays the students work on a revolving basis.  Also, the massive collection of clothing for the students to touch, explore, handle, investigate in the Fashion Resource Center.

Of course, what was one of the most important piece of paper they sent home to us?  The admission guidelines and deadlines! On a sturdy piece of card stock no less!
Pretty straight forward, rolling admissions with the Common App; SAT/ACT test scores, school transcripts and letters of recommendation.  The portfolio is to have have 10-15 of your best work-no specific question to answer in her clothing designs.
The essay on the Common App is to reflect on why Mimi is interested in becoming a fashion designer.  December 1 is the early action deadline - but it's non binding.  That's nice!  February 1 deadline for Merit Scholarship applicants, and the final deadline for admission is May 1 for first time freshman.

This packet of information renewed our excitement about this school, it's commitment to the students, and Chicago is a vibrant city.  And Mimi minds the heat more than the cold!  With the exception of Kingston University, fashion degree program schools seem to be predominantly located in cities.

The other thing this package arrival seem to say to me - Mimi should get started on her essays, visas, and completing her portfolio before her senior high school year starts!

Pam

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