Hi there! This blog is my documentation of my personal experiences in my MFA journey. I’m enrolled with the Academy of Arts University in San Francisco to get my MFA in Photography. The opinions here are my own, they are (by nature) subjective. I will strive to keep my comments positive, however, my life’s experience with education and the field of photography may produce comments that some may not welcome. So be it.
When you read my work, pictures and blogs, you can know that I am not paid by anyone to blog here. It’s just little ol’ me rambling on about things I experiences as part of my MFA process.
A bit more about me and why I’m doing this:
I am the hardest working freelance photographer in Austin,Texas. In the last 5 years I have been a significant contributing photographer for the A-List over on Austin360.com / Statesman. Recently, I started doing a larger variety of event work for Do512.com. I also manage a photography internship program at D0512 where we take in college-level photography students and provide them with real assignments, reviews and experience in one of the few areas that new photographers can still make an income. On top of this I also do Small studio / products / people & fine artwork as well. I have a growing list of exceptional clients.
In 1994, I received my MBA from The University of Texas at Austin. I have applied this knowledge and training to good use by doing great work for various companies and teaching various aspects of business in the business school at my alma mater. I have years of experience in high-tech, media (Radio/TV) and even more combined experience in photography.
My photography experience ranges from small home darkroom work to managing large-business customers for a high volume commercial photo lab. A few years ago I got tired of changing jobs because the fine companies I worked for either went bankrupt, had massive reorganizations and layoffs, or demonstrated questionable ethical behavior that I would not participate in. Working for myself is highly rewarding. Working with other firms allows me to maintain and grow my management/business skills.
My MFA journey is two-fold.
First, I want to explore, study, and expand my work in photographic arts. Spending time focused on this effort will make me a better photographer. I don’t know where along my photographic path I’ll be when I complete the program, but the journey is more important than the destination for this part of my artwork and development.
Second, I love to teach. I guess I’m selfish here. I really learn a lot more about the subjects I teach. This can range from operations management to underwater photography! I especially love teaching in a collegiate setting where you have (mostly) driven students that want to do well. Seeing the lightbulbs turn on when students ‘get it’ and then challenge you back is a wonderful thing. Securing my MFA will provide me the credential to teach in subject areas I love. Teaching is a selfish endeavor as the more I teach the more I learn – I’m fortunate to have become an adjunct instructor at the Art Institute of Austin in the summer of 2011.
Cheers!
David
Hi David,
i have just enrolled in a graduate studies program at AAU. I am taking “Crossing Borders: Arts & Culture in a Global Society” this summer online. It will be accelerated, but not to the degree of the intercession course that you took. Anyway, how was the workload? Mostly reading? Many papers? conceptual or factual? Also, do you have any experience with studio classes yet? I am wondering how well they are executed. Thanks for your time! Susan O
Hi David,
Solid work here.
I am attending AAU, MFA Painting, though I may expand to printmaking or sculpture. Am several semesters into the program, and have opted as you have to pay for it along.
I was and continue to be puzzled at the level of skill of students enrolled in master’s level classes. Though am encouraged at the progress so many make over time.
my preference for this program is, as yours, to remain in my area while obtaining this degree. I have a nice studio and schlepping materials back and forth to a class is something I have grown to hate, and being able to work in an environment I can control (noise, personalities, temperature, cleanliness…) makes it ideal, along with the carbon footprint…not having to drive somewhere or park at a university (expensive.)
I’ve only had one instructor thus far that was seriously disengaged, and agree that I have NO patience for that. The damage is absolutely that one becomes unmotivated.
you’re doing a great service here. Do hope you continue. I will check in regularly.