Master of Fine Arts
A two-year MFA program, major in Contemporary Jewellery and Cultural Identity
The Master of Fine Arts major in Contemporary jewellery and Cultural identity is a two-year program designed to expand and deepen students’ knowledge and skills in contemporary jewellery. It encourages the development of an independent artistic practice, fostering both technical expertise and conceptual depth, while preparing students to situate their work within a professional and cultural context.
The MFA emphasizes the development of a personal creative language, guiding students to critically assess their practice, refine their technical and research abilities, presenting their work effectively within the international field of contemporary jewellery.
Alchimia Contemporary Jewellery School is an independent private institution, not formally recognized by the Italian Ministry of Education (MIUR). Our programs are structured at the level of international BFA and MFA studies, but they carry a private accreditation.
Level
Master
Duration
2 years
Tutors
David Clarke, Evert Nijland
Start
September
Price EU
€ 35.000 (€ 17.500 per year)
Price Non-eu
€ 36.000 (€ 18.000 per year)
Language
English
Administration fee
€ 1.500 1 time
take the first step
Download the brochure
The MFA prepares students to become independent practitioners, fully equipped for careers as jewellery designers, makers, and artists. Only eight students are admitted per year, ensuring close and personal interaction with tutors and a highly individualized learning experience.
The program supports them in:
Conducting advanced research and developing an individual project,
Refining technical, digital, and material experimentation skills,
Presenting and exhibiting their work in professional contexts,
Building networks with galleries, collectors, and cultural institutions,
Engaging in collective activities such as curating, fundraising, and event organization.
The objective of the course is to render the students independent and highly prepared in every aspect of their work as jewellery designers and makers, not only in research, creation, and production, but also in networking, exhibiting and self-presentation in relation to galleries and collectors. Special attention is given to the ability to position your work within a contemporary context and to critically evaluate your own progress.
Our MFA Master of Fine Arts major in Contemporary jewellery and Cultural identity program also involves more collective activities, such as carrying out the entire process of holding an event — including fundraising, curating, and writing the appropriate contents.
Admission Requirements
Open to anyone.
No previous experience in jewellery making is required, but an art background is preferred.
Academic Structure
The program runs from September to July, with a total of 1.250 hours per year. Each academic year is worth 60 ECTS credits, for a total of 120 credits and 2.500 hours over two years.
Application
Applicants must submit the following documents along with the application form:
- Letter of recommendation
- Letter of intent
- Creative portfolio
- Bachelor’s degree transcript
- Detailed CV
- Proof of English language proficiency (Upper B2/C1 level)
Applications are reviewed by the Academic Board. Selected candidates will be invited for an interview before final admission decisions are made. Successful applicants will then receive the official enrollment form.
For more details, please refer to the Admissions page.
Program
First Year
The first year focuses on defining each student’s Personal Project, exploring design methodologies, technical specialization, and the use of emerging technologies and materials. Alongside independent research, students participate in seminars, conceptual workshops, exhibitions, and group critiques, balancing individual development with collaborative activities.
By the end of the year, students are expected to demonstrate advanced contextual, critical, and research skills, preparing them for a deeper focus on their Personal Project in the second year. The year concludes with a group exhibition and the submission of a written dissertation.
First Year Units:
- Modern and Contemporary Art History
- Goldsmithing & Technical Jewellery Lab Specialization
- Jewellery Photography & Digital Photo Processing
- Material Experimentation
- Research Methodologies & Processes
- Contemporary Jewellery History
Second Year
In the second year, students work independently in a dedicated studio space, designed to provide both freedom and professional resources. This phase emphasizes intensive individual research supported by one-to-one tutorials, specialized workshops, and critical discussions relating to contemporary cultural production.
Students are responsible for developing and presenting their personal project, following a structured schedule of deadlines and reviews. The program culminates in a solo exhibition curated by each student, accompanied by a catalogue, and the submission of the final MFA thesis.
Second Year Units:
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Cultural Analysis
-
Exhibition Curating
-
Articulation of Practice
-
Guided Professional Research
-
Reflective Analysis
-
Marketing & Social Media
-
Digital Branding
-
Thesis
MFA Application form
DownloadTutors
Students benefit from ongoing individual guidance from Alchimia’s faculty and guest lecturers, who provide critical feedback and support throughout the development of their projects. This mentorship ensures that each student strengthens their artistic position and gains the skills to evaluate, articulate, and present their work in a professional context.
David Clarke
1st year Tutor Master program
Evert Nijland
2nd year Tutor Master program
Facilities and Workshop
During the second year, MFA students have access to the workshop and our Master Studio: space exclusively reserved for them, with a walking distance from the School, equipped with specialized tools and resources to support independent work.
For further details, please visit our Labs and Facilities.
