Illustration and Art Publishing

Learning Objectives

The study programme for the second-level academic diploma in illustration and art publishing aims to refine, expand and guide the artistic and professional skills acquired in the previous three-year course, bringing the originality of each student to full maturity and, at the same time, developing their cultural preparation in this specific field. This two-year specialisation course will develop in-depth practical and theoretical knowledge of art publishing, typography and illustration. The study programme will focus on the aesthetic choices involved in creating a book as a highly skilled craft and aesthetic object. Paper, text, illustrations, typeface, printing and binding all contribute equally to the creation of the publishing product in its various forms. Designing a book that does not have the mass-produced feel of serial products means reviving traditional craftsmanship, where manual skills are a guarantee of uniqueness, but also experimenting with new structures, combining form and content into a homogeneous and coherent whole in the search for innovative solutions.

Career prospects

The field of Art and Illustration Ethics is a broad and rapidly evolving sector, as evidenced by the recent boom in children’s publishing, which requires the involvement and intervention of various professionals and skills. Graduates of this two-year specialisation course develop professional skills within a specific area of expertise, enabling them to enter the job market as artists, illustrators, private printers, publishers, teachers, technical consultants and freelancers. Working with public and private organisations, the Academy will arrange the most suitable work placements and apprenticeships to help students achieve specific professional qualifications.

Entry requirements

All those holding an academic diploma or a first-level degree are eligible to enrol. The transition from the 1st to the 2nd level within the Department of Visual Arts of the Academy of Rome is carried out on a priority and direct basis. For students coming from another department, academy, or university faculty, the transfer is subject to an entrance exam.
The admission process from the first to the second level is designed to evaluate personal motivations and verify previously acquired skills in order to develop them further during the chosen course of study. It consists of an aptitude test with the candidate presenting their portfolio containing their work and projects, demonstrating their ability to illustrate their work using appropriate language, explaining the techniques used, and providing any other documentation deemed useful for admission purposes. Presentation of their portfolio containing their work and projects, demonstrating their ability to illustrate their work using appropriate language, explaining the techniques used, and providing any other documentation deemed useful for admission purposes.

Type of final assessment

The final assessment consists of the discussion of a theoretical, technical and explanatory thesis that highlights the progress made in exploring the overall project that characterised the chosen study plan. The format is open and must include texts, graphics and the preparation of an exhibition.