Fine Arts MFA Programs in Nashville, Tennessee

Pursuing a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Nashville, Tennessee

A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a terminal graduate degree focused on honing practical studio art skills and theoretical knowledge. MFA programs typically offer specializations such as studio art, painting, sculpture, and printmaking. Programs can vary from low-residency formats to full-time, on-campus experiences that integrate studio practice with art history, theory, and professional development.

About Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee, is a dynamic urban center known for its rich cultural scene and diverse neighborhoods. The city offers a range of arts venues, community initiatives, and historical landmarks. For more information on the city’s cultural landscape and civic resources, visit the City of Nashville’s official website.

MFA Programs in Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville offers select MFA opportunities along with nearby programs that provide a comprehensive education in fine arts. Below is a list of local and proximate institutions offering MFA degrees:

  1. Belmont University (Watkins College of Art)

    • Program: Low-residency MFA in Visual Arts
    • Address: 826 2nd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37210 (Downtown Nashville)
    • Description: This program emphasizes studio practice, art history, and professional development. Prospective students must submit a portfolio of 15–20 recent images, a 500–1000 word artist statement, and academic transcripts. Learn more on the Watkins College of Art website.

  2. University of Tennessee, Knoxville

    • Program: Studio Art MFA with specializations in Ceramics, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, and Time-Based Art
    • Address: Knoxville, TN (exact campus address available on request)
    • Distance: Approximately 180 miles from Nashville
    • Description: This MFA program offers rigorous training with an emphasis on studio exploration, critical theory, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Admission requires a portfolio of 20 images, a 1–2 page artist statement, and undergraduate transcripts. More information is available on the UT Knoxville MFA page.

  3. University of Memphis

    • Program: Fine Arts MFA (Program details available upon inquiry)
    • Address: 3750 Norriswood Ave, Memphis, TN 38152 (Midtown Memphis)
    • Distance: Approximately 210 miles from Nashville
    • Description: This option provides additional graduate-level training in art practices. Prospective students should contact the institution directly to confirm portfolio requirements and specialization offerings.

Art Institutions and Galleries in Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is home to several key art institutions and galleries that support creative practice and public art initiatives:

  • Frist Art Museum

    • Address: 919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203 (Downtown)
    • Description: Housed in a repurposed historic building, the museum offers transformative exhibitions and educational programs. Visit the Frist Art Museum website for more details.

  • Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

    • Address: 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205 (Green Hills)
    • Description: Set on a historic estate, Cheekwood features art exhibitions, botanical gardens, and cultural events. More information is available on their official website.

  • The Blue Room Gallery

    • Address: Located in the East Nashville area
    • Description: This gallery provides exhibition space for emerging and established artists. For current exhibitions and additional details, visit The Blue Room Gallery website.

Prerequisites for MFA Programs

Prospective MFA candidates should be prepared to meet several key prerequisites:

  • Portfolio Submission: Typically 15–20 high-quality images that represent recent work.
  • Artist Statement: Ranges from 500–1000 words (Belmont) or 1–2 pages (University of Tennessee, Knoxville).
  • Academic Transcripts: A bachelor’s degree in art or a related field is generally required.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require one or more recommendations.
  • Entrance Interviews/Exams: Some institutions may incorporate interviews or additional assessments as part of the admission process.

MFA Program Structure and Requirements

MFA programs combine rigorous coursework with extensive studio work. Common structural elements include:

  • Core Courses: Studies in studio practice, art history, theory, and professional practices. At Belmont, coursework emphasizes intensive residencies and professional development, while UT Knoxville focuses on studio exploration and interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • Studio Time and Critiques: Regular sessions that foster peer and faculty review, enhancing technical and conceptual growth.
  • Final Project: Typically, students complete a thesis exhibition accompanied by a written component that documents their artistic journey.
  • State-Specific Requirements: In Tennessee, state arts commissions may influence curriculum components and funding opportunities through bodies like the Tennessee Arts Commission.

Fine Arts MFA Degree Requirements and Resources for Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee

Local and state resources play a significant role in supporting MFA education:

  • Nashville Arts Commission
    • Purpose: Promotes and supports arts initiatives, public art, and cultural programming.
    • Website: Nashville Arts Commission
    • Contact: (615) 862-6720
  • Metro Nashville Arts Commission
  • Tennessee Arts Commission
    • Purpose: Oversees arts education, grants, and cultural initiatives statewide.
    • Website: Tennessee Arts Commission
    • Contact: (615) 741-1701
  • Federal Oversight:
    • U.S. Department of Education: Accredits institutions and regulates federal aid. Visit the Department of Education and review their Accreditation Handbook.
    • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): Provides funding for creative initiatives. More information is available at the NEA website.

State-Specific MFA Degree Information: Both Belmont University and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville require applicants to demonstrate strong artistic vision and technical skills through their portfolio, artist statement, and academic records. Core courses range from studio practice to art history and theoretical studies, culminating in a thesis exhibition with a written project.

Professional Organizations:

Career Opportunities for MFA Graduates

Graduates holding an MFA in Fine Arts may pursue various career paths:

  • Fine Artist/Studio Artist: Creating and exhibiting original artwork.
  • Art Educator: Teaching at schools, colleges, or community programs.
  • Curator or Gallery Director: Overseeing exhibitions and managing collections.
  • Art Administrator: Leading arts organizations and public art projects.

For more detailed employment statistics and job outlook information for Fine Artists, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

Get Started Today

Nashville offers promising opportunities for those seeking an MFA in Fine Arts. Whether you choose a local program like Belmont University or explore nearby options such as the University of Tennessee, Knoxville or the University of Memphis, the foundation for a successful artistic career is well-supported by both state and federal resources. Contact your chosen institution today through the forms on their website to begin your journey toward an advanced degree in studio art.