Since its foundation in 1887, Pratt Institute has nurtured the talents of countless aspiring artists, designers, and architects. Over the years, the institution has produced a remarkable roster of alumni who have left an indelible mark on the world of art and design.
Icons of Modern Art
Jackson Pollock (BFA, 1938): Pollock’s groundbreaking techniques, including “drip painting,” revolutionized abstract expressionism. His masterpiece, “Number 5, 1948,” sold for a record-breaking $140 million in 2006.
Louise Bourgeois (MFA, 1951): Bourgeois’s sculptures explore themes of memory, trauma, and the female form. Her towering installation “Maman” (1999) has become an iconic symbol of contemporary art.
Roy Lichtenstein (BFA, 1949): Lichtenstein’s pop art paintings, based on comic book imagery, became synonymous with the 1960s art scene. His triptych “Whaam!” (1963) is one of the most recognizable works of the era.
Trailblazing Designers
Charles and Ray Eames (BFA, 1940): This husband-and-wife duo revolutionized mid-century furniture design. Their iconic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman remain timeless classics.
Milton Glaser (BFA, 1951): Glaser is best known for his iconic “I ❤ NY” logo, created in 1977. He also designed the posters for Bob Dylan’s “Blonde on Blonde” album and the Brooklyn Brewery logo.
Michael Graves (MArch, 1964): Graves’ postmodernist designs range from the Portland Building in Oregon to the iconic Alessi tea kettle. He has also influenced the field of industrial design.
Architectural Visionaries
Frank Gehry (BArch, 1954): Gehry’s unconventional and deconstructivist architecture has transformed skylines worldwide. His most famous works include the Guggenheim Bilbao and the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
I.M. Pei (BArch, 1940): Pei is celebrated for his modernist designs, including the Louvre Pyramid in Paris, the Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong, and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.
Maya Lin (MFA, 1986): Lin’s minimalist and environmentally conscious designs include the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., and the Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery, Alabama.
Pratt’s Legacy
Pratt alumni have not only made significant contributions to the art and design world but have also played a vital role in educating and inspiring future generations. The institution’s commitment to innovation, experimentation, and social responsibility has fostered a culture of excellence that continues to produce notable alumni who shape the future of art and design.
| Industry | Notable Alumni |
|---|---|
| Architecture | Frank Gehry, I.M. Pei, Maya Lin |
| Design | Charles and Ray Eames, Milton Glaser, Michael Graves |
| Fine Arts | Jackson Pollock, Louise Bourgeois, Roy Lichtenstein |
| Furniture Design | George Nelson, Harry Bertoia, Charles and Ray Eames |
| Graphic Design | Milton Glaser, Paula Scher, Stefan Sagmeister |
| Product Design | Karim Rashid, Yves Béhar, Jonathan Ive |
Common Pain Points:
- Lack of funding and resources for emerging artists and designers
- Stiff competition in the art and design industry
- Balancing artistic integrity with commercial success
Motivations:
- A deep passion for art and design
- A desire to make a meaningful impact on society
- A thirst for innovation and experimentation
- A belief in the power of creativity to transform lives
- Develop a strong portfolio: Showcase your best work and demonstrate your skills and creativity.
- Network with professionals: Attend industry events and build relationships with potential employers.
- Be open to internships and entry-level roles: These experiences provide invaluable hands-on learning.
- Seek mentorship: Find someone experienced in your field who can provide guidance and support.
- Stay informed about industry trends: Keep up with the latest advancements in art and design to stay competitive.
- Underestimating the importance of business skills: In addition to artistic talent, it’s crucial to develop business acumen for success in the art and design industry.
- Focusing solely on your own work: Collaboration is essential for career growth and creativity.
- Giving up too easily: The art and design industry can be challenging, but persistence and resilience are key to overcoming obstacles.
- Ignoring the power of social media: Utilize social media platforms to promote your work and connect with potential clients.
- Being afraid to fail: Failure is an inevitable part of the creative process, but it’s important to learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward.