Living and studying in France will bring you so much closer to your chosen subject: art. You will practically breathe art, culture and history just by walking among the magnificent old buildings. You will be touched by the spirit of old masters, which will help your creativity flourish. Not only will you have a chance to examine the great masterpieces up close in the various galleries and museums, you can also study in schools where many of the masters studied.
The name École des Beaux-Arts (School of Fine Arts) refers to a number of influential art schools in France, with locations in Paris, Dijon, Bourges, Nancy, Lyon, Lorient, Rennes, Quimper and Brest. The most famous among them is the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts (ENSBA) in Paris. The school is over 350 years old and has trained many of the great artists in Europe. Today it offers programs in these fields: painting, installation, graphic arts, photography, sculpture, digital media and video. The school also provides the highest level of training in contemporary art production and employs world-renowned international artists.
Although the fact that France has produced master artists does not in itself guarantee that the level of education will also be up to par, you can rest assured that the quality of art education is indeed remarkably high. In his article In Praise of Art Schools, published in the "Journal of Art & Design Education," Patrick Talbot writes: "Art schools in France have undergone a profound transformation. From being once considered havens of Bohemia with teaching based firmly on the rapport established between master and pupil in the studio, they have become multi-disciplinary with studio practice established in and augmented by art theory as taught by historians, critics, and philosophers. This pedagogical approach is without doubt a challenging and positive way of encouraging students to pursue their artistic ambitions in an atmosphere of personal experimentation that universities often deprecate."
Once you have made up your mind to study art in France, Campusfrance.org is a good place to visit for a comprehensive guide on how to choose a school and a program. This website also provides information on the types of financial aid available and how to prepare for your stay in France. It is also a good idea to locate a Campus France office in your country and get in touch with their counselors so you can receive information tailored to your personal needs.
Something else to consider before you apply to a school in France is your knowledge of the French language. Of course there are programs that are taught entirely in English, but nevertheless, it is a good idea to know the language if you are planning to live in the country for a prolonged period of time. Contact the nearest Alliance Francaise for details regarding exams, or ask the French Embassy -- then get ready to experience the "art de vivre."