Definition: The Art and Art History Area offers students a rich range of fine-art-focused experiences and technical, formal, and conceptual approaches to making and researching creative work. The programs are steeped in a formal studio background, with the ability to explore and combine a variety of media and investigative methodologies to examine and explore topics across 2D, 3D, and 4D (time based) studio practice. The Art & Art History Area encourages innovative and transdisciplinary thinking and making for students interested in alternative and innovative practices.

Accreditation: The Art & Art History Area is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). It is one of five such accredited programs in the UW System.

Professional Opportunities in Art & Art History

Programs of study in the Art & Art History Area prepare you for careers or graduate study in the visual arts, museums/galleries, private studio practice, education, arts administration, and many other possible art-related fields.

General Requirements for Art & Art History

Study in a variety of areas of knowledge is required of all undergraduates, and these requirements vary depending on the particular major. The Art & Art History Area offers the Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees. Additionally, the Art & Art History Area offers an Art History Minor and Art Minor. See the previous section of this catalog entitled General Education

Courses for Non-Art Majors

Subject to availability, courses in the Art & Art History Area are open to all students who meet the prerequisites and secure School permission. You do not need prior consent for courses that are open to non-art majors.

Exhibition Material

The Art & Art History Area reserves the right to retain examples of student work for exhibition purposes.

Visiting Artist and Scholar Program, and Edna Carlsten Gallery

The Art & Art History Area also maintains an ongoing program of visiting artists and scholars to supplement the curriculum, and a cooperative schedule of operations and exhibitions with the Edna Carlsten Gallery, housed in the Noel Fine Arts Center. The gallery regularly displays traveling shows and exhibits for student and public viewing.

Course Fees for Art & Art History

Fees are charged for certain courses to cover the cost of models and consumable materials.