Celebrating years of historical and cultural significances, as well as boasting endless galleries and museums, France is a place which is hardly lacking in artistic inspiration.
It’s no wonder that the art capital is a hotspot for the most prestigious art schools, including Paris College of Art. But why study art in France? We’ve put together a guide to help you understand more about the application process and what France promises for you.
Top Art Universities in Paris
- Paris College of Art
- École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts (French National School of Fine Arts)
- École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs
- National School Fine Arts De Lyon
- École Nationale Supérieure d’arts de Paris-Cergy
Typical entry requirements
Although universities require your qualifications, art schools are more interested in the work you showcase. There are three things which you will definitely need to add in your application, including:
A Personal Statement
This is usually 500 words at a minimum and should highlight your qualifications, your skills, and how you can bring these to your applied institute.
A CV
This may also be requested and is simply a listed way of all your achieved grades, where you studied, and previous work experience.
Portfolio
In your application, the portfolio is arguably the most important part. Here, you will usually be requested to compile perhaps 10-20 of your best work together in a portfolio, which you may either need to submit online or take with you into an interview.
So what does France promise?
Home of the greatest artists and arthouses
From Monet to Picasso, and Rodin to Van Gogh, France boasts a fine array of some of the most famous artists in the world. Not only that, but France also holds the world’s most famous art galleries and museums, especially in Paris. With the Louvre promising a wide range of art spanning across centuries and civilisations, to the Centre Pompidou showcasing an unrivalled collection of contemporary works, or the congregation of local artists and their works in Montmartre, France is nothing short of inspiration for a budding artist.
Job opportunities
Studying art in France also leads to lots of potential careers. From curation to tour guides, museums and galleries are already a starting point for job prospects. Other career opportunities may include venturing into art direction, graphic designing, photography, prop design and art restoration and conservation.
Editor’s Note: France (especially Paris) is the home and inspiration for many famous artists. Why study art in France? Is it the culture, the architecture, or merely something in the water that creates such an artistic genius?