Brush Up: An Orientation Program for the New Entrants

Name of the Department: Applied Arts & Sculpture and Painting, Printmaking & History of Art

Name of the Event/Activity/Workshop/Seminar: “Brush Up” An Orientation Programme

Date: 12 August 2025

Venue: AV Hall

No. of Participants: 25 students

The School of Fine Arts organized its departmental orientation programme – “Brush Up” on 12 August 2025 in the AV Hall to welcome the new batch of BFA and MFA students. The event was designed to provide a holistic introduction to the department’s academic culture, curricular structure, and facilities, while also giving the freshers a chance to interact with their peers and seniors in a welcoming environment.

The orientation began with a traditional welcome ceremony, where the incoming students were greeted with a tika as a mark of respect and auspicious beginnings. Each fresher was also given a small token of welcome, symbolizing the department’s warmth and inclusivity. This initial gesture helped the newcomers feel valued and set a positive tone for the day’s proceedings. The AV Hall was decorated with a vibrant yet elegant touch, reflecting the creative essence of the Fine Arts discipline.

Following the welcome, the formal academic orientation commenced with a welcome address by the faculty, highlighting the ethos of the School of Fine Arts. The address emphasized the importance of nurturing not just technical skills but also creativity, discipline, and critical thinking, which are central to the pursuit of Fine Arts.

A descriptive PowerPoint presentation was then delivered by Dr. Ujjvala M. Tiwari, Ms. Sheetal Chitlangiya, and Ms. Makina Sharma, who systematically guided the students through the academic framework of the department. Their presentation provided a structured overview of the academic journey that awaited the students and addressed various aspects crucial for a smooth transition into the programme.

1. Departmental Website: Students were introduced to the official departmental website, which serves as a comprehensive resource for academic notifications, curriculum details, and event updates. The faculty demonstrated how to navigate the portal effectively.
2. Time Table: The importance of punctuality and time management was underlined as the detailed timetable for classes, labs, and studio sessions was explained. Students were encouraged to maintain discipline and regularity in their attendance.
3. Location of Department / Classes / Labs: To familiarize students with the physical infrastructure, the presentation outlined the locations of classrooms, art studios, specialized labs, and faculty room. This ensured that freshers would have no difficulty navigating the department during their initial days.
4. Departmental Activities and Calendar: The students were briefed about the academic calendar, which includes lectures, workshops, exhibitions, seminars, and competitions. The department’s tradition of celebrating artistic festivals, collaborating with art organizations, and organizing outreach activities was also highlighted.
5. Structure of Course Curricula: A detailed explanation of the course structure was provided, including core subjects, generic electives, and practical components. Students were guided on how the curriculum integrates theory with practice, fostering a balance of conceptual understanding and hands-on skills.
6. Subject-wise Credits: The credit system was explained in detail, clarifying how each subject carries a specific credit weightage and how students’ cumulative credits determine their progression through the programme.
7. Programme Outcomes & Learning Outcomes: The session stressed the larger goals of the programmes, including the development of creative problem-solving abilities, mastery of techniques, appreciation of art history, and preparedness for professional careers in fine arts. Learning outcomes were mapped to industry expectations and academic excellence.
8. Scheme of Examination (CA & SEE): Students were familiarized with the dual structure of Continuous Assessment (CA) and Semester-End Examination (SEE). The faculty explained how internal assignments, presentations, and projects contribute significantly to their overall performance.
9. Assessment and Evaluation Pattern: The grading system, evaluation rubrics, and assessment procedures were elaborated upon. Students were encouraged to maintain consistency in their work to ensure a strong cumulative performance.
10. Library System and Online Access: This segment of the presentation was conducted by Dr. Sonal Jain, who introduced students to the central library system and the specialized collection available for Fine Arts students. She also explained how to access e-resources, digital journals, and online databases. Dr. Jain highlighted the importance of research and independent learning in Fine Arts, encouraging students to make full use of the library’s physical and digital facilities.

At the end of the presentation, to ensure attentiveness and engagement, the faculty conducted a question–answer session. Students were asked questions related to the presentation, and those who answered correctly were rewarded with chocolates. This not only made the session interactive but also reinforced key points from the academic orientation in a light-hearted manner.

To balance the academic briefing with informal interactions, a series of cultural and recreational activities were organized. These helped freshers break the ice, showcase their talents, and feel at ease in their new environment.

1. The seniors welcomed their juniors with a lively dance performance, setting a celebratory atmosphere and reflecting the friendly culture of the department.
2. Games & Ice-Breakers: Multiple games were organized to encourage teamwork and bonding among the new students.
   
   • Tambola with an Artistic Twist: A modified version of Tambola was played with art-related themes and clues, making it both fun and discipline-oriented.
   • Pass the Glass (Team Game): Students were divided into teams of four and challenged to pass a glass using only straws. The task tested coordination and collaboration. The team that completed the challenge first was declared the winner.
   • Musical Chairs with Chits: A playful twist was added to musical chairs, where chits were pasted on chairs. When the music stopped, students sat, and a chit was picked. The word on the chit decided who would be out. This added unpredictability and laughter to the activity.
   • Treasure Hunt: The same teams were given the opportunity to participate in a creative treasure hunt, which added excitement and adventure.
3. Ms. Fresher Contest: One of the highlights of the event was the Ms. Fresher Contest, which provided a platform for students to introduce themselves and showcase their confidence. After a spirited round, the following were declared winners:
   
   • Ms. Fresher (MFA): Ms. Himanshi Bansal
   • Ms. Fresher (BFA): Ms. Suraiya Khan
   • Runners-up (MFA): Ms. Aditi Jain
   • Runners-up (BFA): Ms. Avni Kothari

This contest celebrated individuality, creativity, and the enthusiasm of the new entrants.

The “Brush Up” Orientation Programme 2025 proved to be an enriching blend of academic induction and interactive engagement. While the detailed sessions conducted by Dr. Ujjvala M. Tiwari, Ms. Sheetal Chitlangiya, Ms. Makina Sharma, and Dr. Sonal Jain equipped students with clarity about their courses, evaluation patterns, and departmental facilities, the fun activities and performances created a welcoming atmosphere of friendship.

By the end of the day, the freshers had not only gained a comprehensive understanding of their academic journey but had also forged new friendships and connections. The programme successfully embodied the vision of the School of Fine Arts – nurturing creativity, academic excellence, and a sense of community.

The orientation concluded on a warm note with light refreshments, giving students and faculty the opportunity to interact informally and further strengthen the bonds of the Fine Arts fraternity. The event was not merely an introduction but a memorable initiation into the vibrant world of Fine Arts at IIS (Deemed to be University), leaving students motivated, inspired, and eager to embark on their creative journey.