Founded in 1696, the Berlin University of the Arts (UdK Berlin) unites four colleges—Fine Arts, Architecture/Media/Design, Music, and Performing Arts—offering over 40 programs that encourage interdisciplinary exploration. Known for its rigorous admissions and vibrant creative environment, UdK has shaped cultural icons like Günter Grass, Kurt Weill, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (See Alumni section). Its annual UdK Rundgang art fair showcases emerging talent, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of Berlin’s global cultural influence. With a legacy of innovation and artistic excellence, UdK Berlin continues to inspire the next generation of creative pioneers.

Founded in 1692, The Vienna Academy of Fine Arts has long been an institution of significant historical and cultural importance. With a curriculum that balances traditional techniques with a focus on contemporary approaches, the Academy has become a place where students are pushed to refine their craft while exploring new mediums and ideas. Its influence is felt across various artistic fields, from painting to sculpture and digital media. The Academy’s alumni include major figures in the art world, such as Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka, whose work continues to shape the way we view art today.

Founded in 1837, The Royal College of Art in London stands as one of the world’s foremost institutions for postgraduate art and design education. Located in the heart of South Kensington, the RCA has been instrumental in shaping the careers of some of the most influential artists and designers of the modern era. Alumni like David Hockney, whose vibrant works have redefined 20th-century painting, and Tracey Emin, a prominent voice in the Young British Artists movement, have left an indelible mark on contemporary art (see Alumni section below). The RCA offers advanced education across disciplines, from painting and sculpture to fashion and industrial design. Its interdisciplinary approach blends traditional techniques with groundbreaking innovation, fostering creativity at the intersection of art, design, and technology. With a campus that is both a creative hub and a historical landmark, the RCA continues to nurture the next generation of artists, making an enduring impact on the global art and design landscape.

Founded in 1648, Beaux-Arts de Paris, or more formally, École nationale supérieure des beaux-arts, stands as one of the world's most prestigious art institutions in the world. Located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this historic school has shaped generations of artists, architects, and visionaries, from Charles Le Brun to Gustave Moreau (look at our Alumni examples below for more). Today, it provides comprehensive education in painting, sculpture, digital media, and more, blending classical techniques with contemporary innovation. The campus itself, boasts an extensive collection of 450,000 works, including masterpieces by Poussin and Michelangelo. Through its exhibitions, workshops, and faculty of internationally acclaimed artists, Beaux-Arts de Paris continues to cultivate creativity and define the future of art.

Founded in 1844, Konstfack in Stockholm is Sweden's foremost university for arts, crafts, and design, playing a central role in shaping the country's creative landscape. It has been the training ground for a range of influential figures across various creative fields. Designers like Sigvard Bernadotte were pioneers of Swedish modern design, while filmmakers such as Roy Andersson have gained international recognition for their distinct, surreal cinematic works. Renowned contemporary artists, including Karin Mamma Andersson, have emerged from Konstfack, with their thought-provoking works displayed globally (See more in Alumni Section). Konstfack offers a broad spectrum of disciplines, including fine arts, design, crafts, and applied arts, with an emphasis on innovative, sustainable practices that engage both artistic expression and societal responsibility. The school encourages experimental approaches to art and design while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. With its rich history and continued focus on creative exploration, Konstfack remains a key institution in Sweden’s art and design education, influencing not only Swedish culture but also the wider international art and design community.

Founded in 1663, The Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwer, is a leading institution in the world of contemporary art and design, known for its avant-garde approach to education. The Academy is particularly celebrated for its profound influence on fashion, with the Antwerp Six designers like Dries Van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester, being key figures who revolutionized global fashion in the 1980s. The Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp is renowned for encouraging interdisciplinary approaches, bridging traditional artistic techniques with cutting-edge innovation. It remains a vital institution that influences global art and design, fostering creative talent across a wide range of fields.