The School of Arts and Aesthetics (SAA) is devoted to studies in history, aesthetics and critical theory of the arts from multidisciplinary perspective. Currently a single-centre School, the SAA offers a unique opportunity for integrated study of the visual and performative arts of India, which have been deeply interrelated in their historical context, literary concerns and aesthetics philosophy. Though the School’s focus is on the range of art practices in India, the theoretical framework used for teaching also covers western theoretical developments and refers to relevant aesthetic discourses formulated in other important cultural systems.

The School of Arts and Aesthetics has introduced its unique M.A. programme in visual and performing arts. The overall thrust of the course is inter-disciplinary and cross-cultural.

The subjects are being taught by eminent scholars and teachers specializing in different arts and related areas like anthropology, history, media and cultural studies. The courses are basically theory and history oriented but the emphasis on creativity is never lost sight of and students are encouraged to evolve their own ideas in the context actual exposure to art works. Exposure to archival material and studio-based interactions are given pride of place in the teaching agenda.

Resource Centre : The School is building up a library and large resource centre housing photographs, slides, audio- and video recordings to help teaching. The use of multi-media teaching is geared to help students maintain a live contact with art practices and performance in the period of learning. The students will be encouraged to undertake field trips, to learn documentation and run a journal and curate exhibition in the art gallery of the school.

Outreach Programme : Apart from teaching its regular students, the School is also committed to raising art awareness among the public at large. With this objective in view, the School has already organized outreach programmes to familiarize interested people with key ideas, concepts and history of modern Indian theatre, architecture, Hindustani music and Indian cinema. Four successful outreach programmes have already been organized in these respective areas. Two such programmes are envisaged every year in different aspects of performing and visual arts.