Princeton Atelier

Part studio course, part intensive workshop, the Princeton Atelier is above all an experiment in thinking and making, teaching and collaboration. It is an incubator for artistic imagination that draws on the expertise of professional artists from different disciplines who come together to collaboratively create new work. A painter might team up with a composer, a choreographer might join with an electrical engineer, a company of theater artists might engage with environmental scientists, or a poet might connect with a pianist. Using the classroom as a site of inspiration and experimentation, Atelier courses are designed to give students firsthand experience in what it means to draw from different mediums and approaches to create art together. Using the strength of the respective practices, experiences, and methods of an array of artists, each course challenges students to develop their own creative skills in collaboration with others.

Built around the visiting artists’ newest work and current preoccupations, each Atelier poses new questions and pushes participants to fashion their own unique responses. Atelier courses typically include reading assignments and creative projects, and in-class assignments usually include both discussion and “action.” Although Ateliers are process-oriented, they often culminate in a work-in-progress reading, showing, exhibition, or performance of some kind.

Princeton Atelier courses are open to all students, but some require an application, audition, or portfolio review. Up to two Atelier courses are offered in the fall and spring semesters, and courses are often cross-listed with another program or department.

Learn more about Princeton Atelier faculty, news, events, & courses.