Faculty

The KCAI faculty are effective teachers because they are also practicing artists and designers. They understand the process of creativity — the movement from inspiration to realization, from the promise of an idea to the finished professional piece. They know the frustrations of creating unique work; the ceramic figure that cracks in the kiln, the fabric that won’t take the dye, the limitations of even the most advanced computer animation software. They also know and share the triumphs; the provoking of an idea or the encouragement to get a concept to gel, taking the student deeper into material or visual investigations to generate unique forms or images or the development of professional skills through internships to ensure that students are career-ready when they graduate.

The faculty also expect a great deal from each student. You can expect much in return; their full attention, their dedication to your personal growth as an artist or designer and their celebration of your success as your work grows and matures.

The full-time faculty are complemented by a range of adjunct faculty, most of whom are regionally-based, practicing artists, designers and writers. Many of our adjuncts are working on high-level projects and bring with them professional experiences rooted in the business world. Their creativity and professionalism are essential to the life of our school, and we regard them highly for the perspective they bring in helping to make sure that our students are career-focused.

Enhancing the educational environment at KCAI are workshops and lectures by a wide range of visiting artists and designers. Speakers from a variety of backgrounds share experiences that add value and understanding to the creative process and ensure that students are exposed to creativity across a range of contexts.