SuccessBeyond
Elham Fatapour
Seneca Program
Master's Program and Institution
What influenced your decision to pursue an illustration diploma at Seneca?
My interest in storytelling, mostly inspired by traditional art and miniature paintings, influenced me to pursue the Independent Illustration diploma at Seneca.
Are there any great experiences from Seneca you could share?
Seneca was my first formal education in the art field, which was a valuable experience for me. The Program Co-ordinator, JoAnn Purcell, was a great inspiration to me to finish this program with my own art style, and later continue my studies in the Master of Fine Arts.
Any words of advice for students putting together a portfolio?
I would recommend paying attention to details and coherency of their selected art works for their portfolio.
Did you obtain a bachelor's degree after your Seneca diploma?
No, I already had a bachelor’s degree in economics. This was obtained before going to Seneca for the Independent Illustration diploma program.
Which master’s degree did you pursue?
Master of Fine Arts in Visual Arts at York University.
How did Seneca help you prepare for your Master of Fine Arts at York University?
This program made me determined that I wanted to continue my studies in the fine arts academically. Specifically, after taking two important courses: Applied Illustration History and Traditional Media. These courses focused on art history and conceptual arts, which are taught by JoAnn Purcell.
What influenced your decision to go from pursuing further education in economics to art?
I have always had a passion for art and creativity. This goes back to when I was an undergraduate student pursuing an economics degree, I had been working on art projects, and was painting in my free time. Eventually, I decided I wanted to be an artist and later an art educator as a professional career rather than being an occasional painter. Happily, I decided to go back to school for academic training in the art fields.
Did your economics degree satisfy the undergraduate degree admission requirement for York University’s Master of Fine Arts program?
Partially, yes! One of the main requirements for the Master of Fine Arts application is holding a bachelor's degree, preferably in art, in addition to the applicant's artwork portfolio.
How was the master’s application process different than your previous postsecondary education applications?
Besides the importance of the artwork's quality and concepts, the writings section for the master’s application is very important.
When did you obtain your masters?
I graduated from York University, Master of Fine Arts in Visual Arts, in fall 2020.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a master’s degree?
If you are interested in research, academic and conceptual aspects of art, you should consider pursuing a master's degree in fine arts.
What are you up to now?
I work as a freelance visual artist, working on commissioned paintings and my own projects, besides that I teach painting/drawing too.