Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Creative Colleges in India with Excellent Programs
India is home to some of the most renowned institutions for arts and design, but beyond the big names like NID and NIFT, there are several lesser-known colleges that offer exceptional programs in creative fields. These “hidden gems” provide rigorous training, innovative curricula, and opportunities for aspiring artists and designers to shine. In this article, we’ll explore some of these lesser-known yet outstanding institutions, including MIT Institute of Design, Pune, and Banaras Hindu University’s Faculty of Visual Arts.
1. MIT Institute of Design (MIT-ID), Pune
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Design (B.Des)
Master of Design (M.Des)
Specializations:
Product Design
Graphic Design
Transportation Design
User Experience Design
Key Highlights:
Advanced infrastructure, including design labs and prototyping studios.
Strong industry partnerships for internships and placements.
Active participation in international design competitions.
Focus on sustainable and eco-friendly design practices.
2. Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – Faculty of Visual Arts
Located in the culturally rich city of Varanasi, BHU’s Faculty of Visual Arts is a hub for traditional and contemporary art forms. It is known for its emphasis on preserving India’s artistic heritage while fostering innovation.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Specializations:
Painting
Applied Arts
Sculpture
Textile Design
Key Highlights:
Integration of traditional Indian art techniques with modern methods.
Opportunities to participate in national and international art exhibitions.
Faculty includes celebrated artists and scholars.
Affordable education with excellent facilities.
3. Anant National University, Ahmedabad
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Design (B.Des)
Master of Design (M.Des)
Specializations:
Sustainable Design
Product Design
Space and Interior Design
Interaction Design
Key Highlights:
Curriculum centered on design solutions for real-world problems.
Collaboration with NGOs and industries for live projects.
Scholarships for deserving students.
Emphasis on sustainability and community impact.
4. Rachana Sansad Academy of Fine Arts and Craft, Mumbai
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Diploma in Interior Design
Specializations:
Painting
Sculpture
Interior Design
Key Highlights:
Strong focus on traditional art forms and techniques.
Regular workshops and guest lectures by industry professionals.
Prime location in Mumbai, offering networking opportunities.
Access to modern tools and facilities.
5. Lalit Kala Sansthan, Agra
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Specializations:
Painting
Applied Arts
Sculpture
Key Highlights:
Affordable education with high-quality faculty.
Close association with the Lalit Kala Akademi, offering exposure to major art events.
Focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of art.
Support for student exhibitions and art competitions.
6. Sri Sri University, Cuttack
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Diploma in Design
Specializations:
Applied Arts
Animation
Interior Design
Key Highlights:
Blend of traditional Indian aesthetics and contemporary art practices.
Eco-friendly campus with state-of-the-art facilities.
Opportunities for students to participate in international art residencies.
Focus on mental well-being and personal growth alongside education.
7. Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT), Noida
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Design (B.Des)
Diploma in Fashion Design
Specializations:
Fashion Communication
Visual Merchandising
Graphic Design
Key Highlights:
Strong industry connections in film, media, and design.
Hands-on training with advanced equipment and software.
Opportunities for internships with leading fashion and media houses.
Exposure to real-world projects and collaborations.
8. College of Art, Delhi
Affiliated with the University of Delhi, the College of Art is a well-regarded institution offering fine arts programs with a focus on creativity and innovation.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Specializations:
Painting
Applied Arts
Sculpture
Key Highlights:
Rich legacy of nurturing creative talent since its inception.
Regular exhibitions and art events organized by the college.
Affordable fee structure with excellent facilities.
Experienced faculty members who are accomplished artists themselves.
Conclusion
India’s lesser-known creative colleges offer exceptional opportunities for aspiring artists and designers. These institutions, often overshadowed by more prominent names, provide excellent programs, experienced faculty, and exposure to the creative industry. Whether you’re interested in painting, sculpture, design, or visual arts, these hidden gems can serve as the perfect launchpad for a successful career in the creative field. By exploring these options, students can find programs that align with their passions and career goals while experiencing a diverse and enriching educational journey.