The University of Nevada, Reno Art Department offers a program of undergraduate instruction, combining studio and art history curriculum with diverse studies in the liberal arts. Courses include drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, printmaking, art history, elementary and secondary art education, performance and gallery management. Classes in videography and digital media have been recently added. The department faculty also participates in the London study program, offering both studio and lecture courses to Nevada students studying in residence in England. The department brings together imaginative teachers with curious students in a well-equipped facility.
Classes are small, and students and faculty work together in a stimulating environment.
The Sheppard Gallery is nationally respected and provides students with firsthand exposure to important works of contemporary art and visiting artists. Preparation and hanging of gallery exhibits is an integral part of the instructional program. In its 30 year history the Sheppard Gallery has exhibited over 200 artists, including Robert Arneson, Manuel Neri, William Wiley, Roy DeForest, Bruce Connor, Nancy Grossman, Judith Yourman, Robert Brady, Robert Bechtle, Peter Voulkos, Nathan Oliveira, Pedro Meyer, Richard Misrach, Ralph Goings, Faith Ringold, Deborah Butterfield, Lewis Blatz, Rupert Garcia and Paul Koz. The university art instructors, in addition to their own teaching responsibilities, are engaged in creative research, publication and exhibitions activities. These efforts have earned them international and national recognition.