There is a buzz going on in artistic academic circles these days on just what the object of a professional arts degree is supposed to be. Should it be to enrich the individual or to reflect well on the school? I think the reason this debate is going on is simply that the arts feel threatened. As technology increasingly allows the average, creative, motivated person to use the same tools as the professionals, it dilutes the professionalism of the practice. Standards are in question. Does it take a degree to be creative?
It happened to typesetters, graphic designers, photographers, videographers and image makers in general. Some of these trades were skilled, blue collar jobs, accepted amongst professionals. As technology advanced and commerce catered to their audience with a wider acceptance of arts and crafts, the trade tools have become widely available.
If creativity cannot be measured by a degree, what separates the degreed professional from the highly skilled, non degreed person? Is it concept, materials, critical analysis?
Surely it is a wise thing to look to organizations that support their profession. It is likely they who will set the standards for professions in general.
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