The Missouri Fine Arts Academy (MFAA) begins another journey with Dr. Fatih Benzer as its new director.

The associate professor of art and design at Missouri State University will begin the role this fall.

“I’m very excited to lead the Missouri Fine Arts Academy for the upcoming summer program in 2024 as the new director,” Benzer said. “Since its conception, MFAA has provided a rigorous program in areas of arts, such as music, dance, theater, creative writing and visual arts, which I plan on further developing to reach a bigger audience.”

Substantial research experience

Benzer brings extensive experience to his new role. He has done groundbreaking research in the areas of art education, painting and drawing. His publications and exhibitions have gained notable recognition over the years.

He holds a doctoral degree in art education from Arizona State University and a master’s in painting from California State University.

Benzer was elected president of the United States Society for Education through Arts (USSEA) in 2015. Over the past two years, he has taught at the MFAA as an art instructor.

“Dr. Benzer brings extensive faculty experience in art education to MFAA,” said Dr. Shawn Wahl, dean of MSU’s Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (RCASH). “Fatih will continue our emphasis on enhancing RCASH pre-college learning experiences for students across Missouri.”

Benzer looks forward to beginning this new journey.

“One of my main goals for MFAA is to offer a great opportunity to inspire outstanding students to develop advanced skills and knowledge in an all-inclusive environment supported by all,” Benzer added. “But, my biggest aspiration for MFAA is to ensure we provide the finest and long-lasting experiences for all our students.”

About the academy

The MFAA is a two-week summer residential program for highly motivated student artists in visual arts, theatre, dance, creative writing and music. The academy offers an intensive schedule of classes and a wide range of co-curricular activities.

MFAA is conducted with the support and cooperation of MSU, and is funded through program fees, grants, endowments, scholarships and private donations. RCASH works with the Missouri state legislature in managing the affordability of MFAA.

Explore more opportunities at the Missouri Fine Arts Academy