Samantha Foster
Fine Arts MFA
What made you choose Columbia?
Columbia stood out to me when researching MFA programs because there is a concerted effort to teach students practical knowledge on how to be successful in the marketplace in conjunction with their studio work. Professors and other advisors are honest about the realities of being an artist, and courses such as Art Practice Now! help to guide students toward not only opportunities, but also forging a knowledge of one’s artistic merit.
What do you plan on studying during your time here?
I am in the MFA program focusing on printmaking.
What are your career goals at this time?
My career goal is to combine my undergraduate business degree and work experience with my art practice in order to open a community-based press dedicated to printmaking.
What do you most look forward to about learning and creating in Chicago?
The Chicago atmosphere is incredibly enthusiastic and thus far Columbia Chicago has been very welcoming. I look forward to engaging more with my cohort and artists in the area, along with taking advantage of the plethora of resources this city has to offer.
How do you see your artistic practice engaging with contemporary events?
This moment in time will be reflected upon for generations to come. It is our responsibility as artists to document, participate, and be the leaders of the change we want to see happen. Though this sounds daunting, for me it can be as simple as creating, “GO VOTE” linocut postcards and mail them via USPS to people I know who are hesitant. I highly encourage people with creative endeavors to capitalize on them in order to affect positive change.
