Art and Technology

Before applying, please make sure to familiarize yourself with the Art and Technology Program, faculty, facilities, curriculum and view student work.

Portfolio Guidelines (MFA)

Submit approximately 20 examples of your current work. The submitted work needs to be representative of a graduate level student and an informed creative practice. No class projects will be considered.

The works do not need to be solely technology based; we are interested in a wide variety of intermedia and experimental art practices that can be supported and/or enhanced by the program’s curriculum. We recommend that you emphasize two or three bodies of work. Portfolios may represent more than one media type (digital video, photography, sound, text files, web sites). Moving image/sound work that is longer than 15 minutes, should be edited to 3 to 5 minute excerpts that best represent the work. Longer versions can be included in the portfolio as well.

MFA Interviews

Applicants who have passed the preliminary selection process will be notified in mid-February. At that time, candidates will be invited to visit CalArts in March for an interview and to meet faculty and students. The interview is required of invited candidates and is an important component of the final selection process. Video chat interviews are available in exceptional cases, however we like to emphasize the importance of having an in person interview as part of the application process for prospective students. Additionally, it gives you an opportunity to see the school and meet and talk to the faculty.

Artist Statement

The artist statement for the Art and Technology program must explain in detail the critical basis of your work in regards to the use of technology within a creative and cultural practice. The statement needs to outline the creative goals you would like to achieve while in the program, along with your interest in exploring art and technology within an interdisciplinary context. When applying online, this statement should be submitted with both your online application and your online portfolio.

Video Introduction

Students are strongly encouraged to submit a video introduction. As we look at your work, we would very much like to meet you. Since this would be impossible in practical terms, we ask that you send a brief video introducing yourself.

  • Duration: minimum of 30 seconds, maximum of 90 seconds.

  • Speak directly to the camera.

  • No edits.

  • No special effects or on-screen overlays.

  • File should be uploaded or linked directly in your portfolio.

  • Does not require professional-level equipment; cellphone camera or consumer cameras are okay.

Letters of Recommendation

Art and Technology applicants are required to submit two letters of recommendation. We recommend that you submit the requests for your letters of recommendation through the online application, as it will allow you to track when the letters are submitted. However, if this is not possible, you may also download the Letter of Recommendation Form (pdf) and have your recommender send their letter by mail. Please choose only one method—either online or by mail—per recommender.

Online Portfolio Submissions

Please use the portfolio section of the application, to upload your portfolio with digital files. The system allows you to create a corresponding inventory of works, listing for each image the following information: title, date, medium, dimensions and notes. You may upload still images or video works.

Once your portfolio is uploaded, it can be viewed and rearranged until the final submission is made. No changes can be made following the final submission of your portfolio. Please be advised that CalArts is not able to view your work until the final submission is made and your application fee is received.