Public Art and Performative Practices - MA
Aldgate Campus, United Kingdom
Public Art and Performative Practices - MA
London Metropolitan University
Art, Architecture and Design
Program Overview: Public Art and Performative Practices MA
The Public Art and Performative Practices MA at London Metropolitan University prepares artists and art professionals for the increasing demand in the sector to develop publicly interactive, performative and immersive work. This program encourages a practical and industry-minded approach to exploring how contemporary art experiences engage with the public, spanning creative mediums including visual art, performance, video, installation, sculpture and digital art.
The program is one of the founding members of the International Masters Network for Art in Public Space, developing links with leading masters programs across the world. It runs collaborations with prestigious national and international art organisations, including Tate Modern, City of London Corporation, London Festival of Architecture, the ICA, Ca' Pesaro in Venice, and Museo Spazio Pubblico in Bologna.
Graduates benefit from a unique connection with CREATURE, London Met's own Research Centre for Creative Arts, Cultures and Engagement, and are invited to continue as part of this thriving research community. All tutors are internationally recognised industry professionals who approach the subject from different angles and areas of expertise, ensuring you receive guidance rooted in real-world practice.
Key Program Highlights
- Founding member of the International Masters Network for Art in Public Space with global institutional partnerships
- Live collaborations with organisations such as Tate Modern, the ICA, London Festival of Architecture, and City of London Corporation
- Connected to CREATURE research centre, offering graduates ongoing involvement in a vibrant research community
- Taught by internationally recognised industry professionals with expertise across performance, curation, and public art commissioning
Curriculum and Modules
The MA curriculum blends theoretical inquiry with hands-on studio practice, structured around core modules that guide you from creative exploration to professional readiness. In the autumn and spring terms, you follow a central artistic and conceptual path complemented by professional focus units, research methodology training, and a major independent project.
Public Art and Performative Practices
40 creditsThe central module providing an overall artistic and conceptual path for your learning. Through regular visits to London art galleries and practical studio workshops, you explore the cultural potential of developing public art works and build professional contacts.
Professional Focus 1: Public Art, Funding and Commissioning
20 creditsThis module addresses the question of arts funding, how to gain commissions, and how to promote yourself as an art professional. You will explore the landscape of funding bodies such as Arts Council England and their requirements around inclusivity and audience engagement.
Professional Focus 2: Project Managing Public Art
20 creditsFocused on the practical skills needed to manage public art projects from conception to completion. You will learn project planning, stakeholder engagement, and the logistical considerations involved in delivering art in public spaces.
Research for Practice
20 creditsThis module supports your creative journey by helping you develop research awareness, methodologies, and academic inquiry skills. It informs your artistic perspectives with theoretical and methodological rigour.
Project as Professional Practice
60 creditsThe major independent project module where you develop and realise a substantial body of work that demonstrates your creative vision, professional competence, and critical understanding of public art and performative practices.
Public Art: Creating and Curating
20 creditsRunning across autumn and spring terms, this module provides hands-on experience in both creating and curating public art. You engage with the artistic, cultural, and ethical considerations involved in producing works for public audiences.
Elective and Specialist Pathways
Admission Requirements
The MA Public Art and Performative Practices welcomes applicants from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds, including fine art, theatre, film, media, architecture, and urbanism. To apply, submit your application through Uni4Edu, where our team will guide you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum Degree ClassificationA minimum of a 2:2 honours degree (or international equivalent) in any subject discipline
- Personal StatementA detailed statement supporting your application to the course, outlining your creative interests and goals
- PortfolioAn up-to-date portfolio or documentation of relevant creative work is recommended for the interview stage
- CV / ResumeAn up-to-date CV detailing your academic and professional experience
- Professional ExperienceRelevant professional or creative experience is valued but not a formal requirement; mature applicants with diverse backgrounds are welcomed
English Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicOverall 6.0 with minimum 5.5 in each component (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)
- TOEFL iBTOverall 72 with minimum component scores: Listening 17, Reading 18, Writing 17, Speaking 20
- Other Accepted TestsEquivalent scores from other recognised English language tests may be accepted; contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
London Metropolitan University offers a range of scholarships and financial support options for international postgraduate students. Many awards are automatically applied upon enrolment, while others require a separate application. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and how to maximise your funding opportunities.
International Bright Futures Scholarship
GBP 3,000 tuition fee reductionAutomatically applied to all eligible full-time international fee-paying students for the duration of their studies. No separate application is required, making this an accessible form of financial support for postgraduate students across all schools.
International Excellence Postgraduate Scholarship
GBP 4,000 tuition fee discountAvailable to students from select countries including the USA, Africa, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Applicants must hold or expect a first-class bachelor's degree. Can be combined with other awards for up to GBP 9,500 in total reductions.
International Students House and London Met Postgraduate Scholarship
Full tuition waiver plus accommodation and flightsA highly competitive award offering full postgraduate tuition, 12 months of furnished accommodation at International Students House in central London, and return flights. Open to full-time postgraduate students from the USA, Africa, Latin and Central America, and India.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The MA Public Art and Performative Practices is designed to develop career paths for artists, curators, and facilitators interested in any creative medium with a specific focus on developing public-facing projects. With London's position as one of Europe's leading contemporary art scenes, graduates are well-placed to enter a growing sector where funding bodies increasingly demand inclusivity and audience engagement.
Potential Career Roles
Potential Employers and Organisations
Rankings and Recognition
London Metropolitan University is a public university located in London with a strong focus on inclusive education, employability, and creative disciplines. The School of Art, Architecture and Design, where this program is housed, is particularly well-regarded for its practice-based approach and industry connections. The university is ranked among the top UK institutions for film production and photography and has been recognised for its commitment to social inclusion.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Film Production and Photography | Complete University Guide | #2 in UK |
| Art and Design | The Guardian | Top 50 in UK |
| Interior Design | The Guardian | #5 in UK |
| Arts Visual and Performing | National Rankings | Top ranked subject area at London Met |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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