Department of Art
Located in Hardman Hall
Art History • Studio Art • Photography
"Art is born of the observation and investigation of nature." ~ Cicero
The faculty of the Art Department have created a challenging program in art characterized by small class and individual attention to students that emphasizes a solid foundation in studio skills and a broad understanding of the history of art. The faculty's areas of expertise and interests are diverse, allowing a wide range of possibilities in the studio and in the study of art history from traditional studio media, such as clay and paint, to digital imaging and from prehistory to contemporary art criticism.
The Art Department is in a charming historic neoclassical building, which includes studios for ceramics, drawing and design, painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture, along with lecture and seminar rooms for art history. Digital imaging is taught in one of several computer labs on the campus.
All students take a core of design, drawing, art history and criticism then choose courses complete their major which fit their own particular needs and interests.
Studio Emphasis
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Art with a Studio Emphasis consists of a minimum of 33 hours and a senior project exhibition focused on the student's creative interest, such as painting, sculpture, etc. Students who complete this major may be interested in graduate study or preparation for a career in education or business.
Art History Emphasis
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Art with an Art History emphasis consists of a minimum of 30 hours and a senior research project investigating an original question in art history. Students who complete this major often plan to pursue graduate study.
Minors
Minor in Art
The minor in Art consist of a minimum of 15 hours based on a core of art history and design, or drawing, together with electives of the student's choice.
Minor in Photography
The minor in Photography consists of a minimum of 15 hours, including a three-course sequence of Photography and two electives from Design and Color, Modern Art History and Introduction to Mass Media.
Hardman Gallery Exhibition Program
Each year the department presents a faculty exhibition, four visiting professional exhibitions, one all-student exhibition and senior project exhibitions for graduating seniors.
Gallery Internship
Students who enroll in a gallery internship gain hands-on experience in the operation and management of gallery exhibitions. Possibilities for internships include Hardman Gallery and any of several local museums.