Complemented by a general education in liberal arts studies, this studio program enables each student to master creative techniques and to comprehend the meaning and importance of the visual arts in a diverse social, historical, and intellectual context. The Department of Visual Arts provides a foundation of knowledge and skill in the visual arts which will prepare students to practice art on a professional level. Students may elect an art degree program, which is designed to prepare practicing artists, plus certification, which is designed for students who wish to teach art in the public schools. The art focus concentrates on skill development and creative expression in ceramics, painting, printmaking, and sculpture. Other courses include computer graphics, photography, and crafts.
Theoretical knowledge is embedded in practical learning.
Students are trained as both practicing artists and educators. Graduates are certified to teach in the public schools at all grade levels. The Department of Visual Arts has teachers who are specialists in the courses they teach. A large gallery, supplemented by the Library and Lane Center gallery, provides students with exhibition and viewing space for Museum presentations, senior shows, special exhibitions and cooperative performance exhibitions. Video-tape machines, darkroom facilities, a complete computer lab, sculpture studio equipment, a slide library, ceramic kilns, printmaking and graphic design equipment are available to qualified students.