Hello to anyone who might stumble upon this thread. I did, as I was trying to make a decision between several good departments for an MFA in painting. Lucky for me, I visited UW and didn't make my choice based on what I saw on this forum. I am posting this here as a service to others who might be going through the same process as I was, and who might benefit from this knowledge.
This place has been great, and I find the faculty to be professional, intelligent, dedicated to their work, and interested in their students' learning. Of course this is not a place for everyone -- the best way to decide if a school is for you is to visit if you can (after you have been offered admission -- don't bother visiting before you apply, as that would be a waste of time).
I'd like to clarify a few points.
1) There are printmaking facilities here, though no MFA specifically in printmaking.
2) If you get along with most people, you will probably get along with the faculty just fine. They are good people.
3) This is a great place for people who think deeply and who like to engage in interdisciplinary academic research.
4) This is an excellent department for people who are self-starters, and who are able to discipline themselves to spend long hours in the studio.
5) You may do well at UW if you are really dedicated to painting and drawing.
Anyway, I have been really happy here. If you are making an admissions decision, go ahead and visit. Or email some of the MFA students in the department! This may not be the place for you, but it is a great school.
