Course content

Teaching and learning methodologies are interactive with lectures, audio-visual presentations, seminars, group discussions, reviews, studio work and field visits. Interns also assist and work at Dakshinachitra concurrently with coursework. The minimum qualification for candidates is they need to be graduates in any subject with a deep interest in art and culture.

Fees and faculty

Students have not been charged a penny so far, and have been taken entirely on merit. A yearly stipend of Rs 30,000 is given to all admitted students. As for the faculty, it includes well-known names from the fields of art, craft and history.

Employment opportunities

According to Deborah, someone with work experience and a Diploma in Arts Management could start off with a salary of approximately Rs 15,000. Fresh graduates could get between Rs 7,000 and Rs 10,000. There are opportunities in art and craft promotion bodies, museums and art galleries, tourism and hospitality, event management and entrepreneurship in the field of art, design and craft development.

"Many people are expected to start art galleries in small towns," says Deborah, "and the opportunities are growing. Although salaries do not match those offered by BPO companies, the careers will be rewarding. When it comes to the arts, there is a learning period. You don't become an expert the minute you finish an 11-month course.

The future

Madras Craft Foundation eventually plans to take students from around the world. Deborah foresees an increase in awareness on arts management. She also wants to start short-term courses. "I see 15-20 students in future. We want to create highly specialised professionals. Once we stand on our own, we will start charging students. I am optimistic about the institute."

Address
Madras Craft Foundation
G-3, Madhuram Flats
6, Urur Olcott Road
Chennai -- 600 090

Phone: (044) 2491 8943, 2446 2435

e-mail: mcfdak@md3.vsnl.net.in

Web site: Dakshinachitra.net