MFA Programme in Crafts, Ceramic Art
Summary
The master’s programme in Craft specialising in Ceramic Art at HDK-Valand combines material-focused exploration with conceptual and theoretical reflection. You will investigate the dynamic relationship between human and artefacts, deepening your understanding of ceramics while critically exploring its artistic and social roles. Through practice, theory, and your artistic inquiries, you will refine your skills and artistic expression in an international, transparent, and inclusive environment.
Other specializations
About
In every society, craft provide vital reference points, helping us shape the future while grounding us in the present. Craft link human needs and activities across history creating a dynamic artistic field that engages with both cultural heritage and contemporary practice. At HDK-Valand, the master’s programme in Craft forms part of a vibrant academic environment where undergraduate education, research, and societal engagement are constantly in dialogue.
The master’s programme in Craft offers three specialisations:
- Jewellery Art
- Ceramic Art
- Textile Art
Each specialisation provides a unique opportunity to delve into artistic exploration and conceptual development through materials. The programme is designed to cultivate your ability to initiate and realise artistic projects, encouraging independent thinking, critical analysis, and technical mastery.
Collaborative Work Environment and Individual Development
You will work alongside students from other specialisations, with a focus on your chosen field—be it jewellery art, ceramic art, or textile art. The small study groups and close contact with experienced teachers create an environment that fosters collaboration and intensive learning. This setting allows you to develop confidence in your working methods, broaden your artistic perspective, and enhance both technical and theoretical knowledge. Each student is provided with an individual workspace and generous access to our state-of-the-art facilities.
Shaping Your Artistic Expression
The programme seamlessly integrates theory, reflection, and practice, with a focus on nurturing your individual artistic voice. Through studio work, lectures, seminars, and supervision, you will shape your artistic expression and engage deeply with materials and concepts. The programme encourages the development of skill-based knowledge, fosters debate about material inquiries, and investigates the conceptual identity of craft.
Specialising in Ceramic Art
The ceramic department holds light and beautiful workshops, several electrical kilns, and three combined electrical and gas kilns. We have plaster, casting, and glazing workshops.
Our small study groups and close contact with experienced, internationally recognised teachers create an intensive learning environment that fosters collaboration and personal growth. The programme integrates theory, reflection, and practice, supporting the development of your individual artistic voice.
Join a Dynamic Research Environment
At HDK-Valand, you’ll be part of a thriving research community that spans from undergraduate to doctoral level. Our programme offers unique opportunities to engage with cutting-edge, practice-based research, broadening your understanding of your own artistic practice and its relevance in the contemporary art world. While you may not work directly on specific research projects, you’ll have the chance to attend research seminars, interact with doctoral students, and gain insight into innovative methods that push the boundaries of craft as an art form. This environment also provides a strong foundation for those considering PhD studies in artistic practice
Get to know teachers and other staff at The Craft and Fine Art Unit.
Visit the programme on Instagram!
Programme structure and content
First Semester: An immersive, reflective exploration of the methods and contemporary theories that underpin contemporary craft, allowing students to identify specific interests and artistic direction. Introduction to academic writing.
Second Semester: Engage in advanced projects to develop your artistic process and techniques, with a focus on material exploration, writing and conceptual development. You will also participate in an elective course, broadening your knowledge alongside students from other specialisations. Students apply for the elective courses based on an annual course offering.
Third Semester: Deepen your material and conceptual knowledge while laying the groundwork for your final degree project. Develop an in-depth understanding and execution of research supported by and developed by a broader artistic community.
Fourth Semester: Complete an independent degree project including a major artistic work, a written report, and a public exhibition, showcasing your artistic development and research skills.
Who should apply?
Are you passionate about exploring the interplay between materials, methods, theory, and concepts in your artistic practice? Do you want to challenge boundaries and discover new ways of thinking through craft?
This programme is for those who see craft as more than working with materials—it’s about the dialogue between practice and theory, hands-on making, and conceptual development. You’ll be encouraged to think critically about how your work connects with artistic and social contexts.
If you’re ready to explore craft through practical skills and theoretical reflection, this programme is for you.
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts or equivalent of at least 180 credits. Applicants must prove their knowledge of English: English 6/English B from Swedish Upper Secondary School or the equivalent level of an internationally recognized test, for example TOEFL, IELTS. In addition, approved work samples are required.
Portfolio
Find the portfolio instructions for the MFA Programme in Crafts.
More information about Portfolio
Selection
The selection is based on an assessment of submitted work samples and a personal interview.
After graduation
Graduates receive a Master of Fine Arts degree in Craft specialising in ceramic art, preparing them for:
- A professional career as an independent ceramic artist
- Collaborative roles within the broader field of contemporary craft and design
- Engagement with leading galleries, museums, and arts organisations
- Further academic pursuits, including doctoral studies in craft or related areas
Facilities
The programme is based at HDK-Valand's facilities on Kristinelundsgatan in central Gothenburg, adjacent to the renowned Röhsska Museum. In the workshops we have several electrical kilns, and three combined electrical and gas kilns. We have plaster, casting, and glazing workshops. Our facilities support a wide range of creative processes, providing the tools and resources needed for your artistic development within an inspiring, international study environment.
