Program Overview

Introduction to the MFA in Fibers and Material Studies

The MFA in Fibers and Material Studies offers an in-depth exploration of critical topics such as cultural appropriation, sustainability, feminism, globalization, and the often-overlooked contributions of women and people of color in textile history. Through a combination of coursework, research, and hands-on practice, students engage with these complex issues while developing the material knowledge and critical skills to lead thoughtful conversations in creative communities.

Program Overview

The Fibers and Material Studies program at the Tyler School of Art and Architecture is a two-year, 60-credit program leading to the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree. The program pushes students to refine their aesthetic and embrace a broad definition of material exploration in relation to relevant global issues. Under the mentorship of an influential and diverse faculty and visiting artists on the cutting-edge of creative practice and critical inquiry, students find a compassionate, inclusive environment primed for experimentation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and independent study.

Guiding Principles

The MFA in Fibers and Material Studies is built on three guiding principles—transformation, exploration, and innovation—that shape our approach and guide the student experience.

• Transformation: The program is designed to empower students to think critically, explore new possibilities, and challenge the status quo.
• Exploration: The program offers an in-depth exploration of critical topics such as cultural appropriation, sustainability, feminism, globalization, and the often-overlooked contributions of women and people of color in textile history.
• Innovation: Tyler's Fibers and Material Studies studios are equipped with advanced tools and technologies that empower students to research, experiment, innovate, and expand the boundaries of traditional fiber techniques.

Studio Space and Facilities

Tyler's Fibers and Material Studies studios are equipped with advanced tools and technologies, including:

• A loom room with many floor looms, a large tapestry loom, and a TC2 Jacquard loom
• Tufting equipment, a long-arm sewing machine, industrial and domestic sewing machines, and multiple embroidery machines
• A state-of-the-art dye lab
• A screen-printing studio and large-format digital printing capabilities
• Private graduate studios designed to foster both creative focus and collaborative exchange
• A natural dye garden developed in collaboration with Tyler's landscape architecture and horticulture programs

Career Opportunities

Tyler Fibers and Material Studies graduates stand out for their critical thinking and deep material knowledge. Equipped with advanced technical and conceptual skills, they go on to shape the future of fiber across a range of careers, including:

• Weaver
• Dyer
• Project Manager
• Technician
• Designer
• Educator
• Fashion Industry
• Studio Artist

Faculty

Our dynamic, multidisciplinary faculty bring expansive approaches to material, identity, and place, and foster an environment that encourages critical thinking, play, and personal exploration—supporting students as they develop their voices and visions. The faculty includes:

• Delaney DeMott, Associate Professor and Program Head
• Timothy Belknap, Adjunct Faculty
• Feather Chiaverini, Adjunct Faculty
• Jesse Harrod, Associate Professor
• Lena Kolb, Adjunct Faculty
• Christina Roberts, Adjunct Faculty
• Kishan Singh Tehara, Adjunct Faculty

Alumni Spotlight

Our alumni represent the Tyler Fibers and Material Studies program worldwide. They maintain a support network as they teach, design, and practice their craft globally. Notable alumni include:

• Ryan Scails
• Lena Kolb
• Brendan O'Shaughnessy

Alumni Voices

Our alumni share their experiences and the impact of the program on their careers and personal growth.

• Maedeh Mehdipour, MFA '25
• Feather Chiaverini, MFA '22
• Ally Messer, MFA '25
• Anna Bockrath, MFA '24
• Emily Friesen Divine, MFA '23

Student Work

Our students enter the world as innovators and cultural producers, possessing problem-solving skills, tenacity, and the drive to thrive in nearly any industry. Examples of student work include projects by:

• Brendan O'Shaughnessy, MFA Fibers and Material Studies '24
• Anna Bockrath, MFA Fibers and Material Studies '24
• Ryan Scails, MFA Fibers and Material Studies '24