Governors State University’s ARTGOVST event highlighted opportunities for students interested in advancing their careers through the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art, a multidisciplinary program designed to support artistic growth and professional development.

Organized by Gretchen Jankowski, the event introduced attendees to the structure and benefits of the MFA program, which offers concentrations in ceramics, drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture. Located near Chicago, the program emphasizes both creative exploration and academic research, guided by faculty who are practicing artists with national exhibition experience.

The MFA program is structured with flexibility in mind, allowing both full-time and part-time enrollment. Students typically complete the 60-credit program in three years if enrolled full-time, while also working closely with faculty mentors to tailor their academic and artistic direction. The program concludes with a solo thesis exhibition, where students present a developed body of work.

During the event, attendees engaged with participants and gathered insights about the program experience. Two participants, Jafar Abushannab and Gracie Hitzelburger, provided information about the event and shared perspectives on student involvement and opportunities within the MFA program.

In addition to academic offerings, the program provides hands-on exposure through gallery exhibitions, research presentations and visits to museums and galleries across the Chicagoland area. On-campus gallery spaces host more than 30 exhibitions each year, creating opportunities for students to showcase their work and engage with diverse artistic communities.

The MFA in Studio Art prepares graduates for careers as professional artists, educators, museum professionals, arts administrators and creative entrepreneurs, positioning them to contribute meaningfully to the evolving arts landscape.

Artist Feature: Chai6 Studio

Alongside the event, Chai6 Studio (CH★16 STUDIO) invited audiences to stay connected with its creative work. The studio encourages supporters to join its mailing list to receive updates on exclusive offers, discounts and upcoming product drops.

More information can be found at chai6studio.bigcartel.com, or by following @Chai6.studio and @Chai6studio on social media. For inquiries, the studio can be reached at [email protected].