Media Arts

The Media Arts program explores the vast creative potential of filmmaking beyond the traditional Hollywood narrative. Students learn how to move an audience through the creation of rich, thought-provoking experimental films, while they develop a wide array of skills. These skills provide students with the tools needed to work as independent artists/filmmakers, go into media-based industry jobs or continue their education at the graduate level.
 
Students are introduced to historical and contemporary film and video artists while learning the fundamentals of high definition video, conceptual modes of working and real-world production skills are taught. Students have access to High Definition video cameras and DSLR cameras. Projects are edited in the Media Arts lab, which includes the latest Adobe and Final Cut Pro software on 22 MacPro computers.

As students continue within the program, new skills and more advanced processes are introduced in a variety of different courses including, Experimental Narrative, Media Installation and Special Effects. These courses lead to the final Capstone experience where students create a final project that showcases their personal vision and the skills they have developed.

Students are encouraged to take advantage of all the programs within VANM as well as their interests outside of art to create a cross-discipline educational experience that will inform their art. SUNY Fredonia has a wide range of supporting programs to enhance the Media Arts students’ educational experience including the Film Studies Minor program, the student group Media Arts Club and the SUNYWide Film Festival.

Students who have participated in the Media Arts program have gone on to work in post-production houses, or become independent videographers or filmmakers. Many students go on to receive their MFA degree to further their educational opportunities.