Institute for Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts

The Institute for Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts (IDSVA) is a groundbreaking private graduate school that redefines advanced education for visual artists. Founded in 2006 by George Smith, IDSVA emerged from a conviction that contemporary art demands deeper research, writing, and critical skills than traditional MFA programs often provide. Smith envisioned a unique Doctor of Philosophy program specifically for "artist-philosophers," believing that artists are inherently philosophers.

IDSVA's core premise is revolutionary: it directly recognizes the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) as a scholarly credential. This means artists can pursue a PhD in philosophy without needing to acquire an additional master's degree in a non-artistic field, fostering a direct bridge between creative practice and rigorous academic inquiry. The curriculum is designed to cultivate intellectual and scholarly talent rooted in art as philosophy, enabling students to write dissertations that integrate their artistic and philosophical pursuits.

Operating on an innovative "without a campus" model, IDSVA channels its resources entirely into faculty excellence, robust online learning, and immersive international residencies. Students complete much of their coursework remotely, but periodically gather for enriching sessions held in culturally significant locations across North America, Europe, and North Africa. This unique structure offers a dynamic, globally-informed educational experience, connecting students with diverse perspectives and historical contexts.