Visual Arts (Studio Fine Arts Concentration), B.A.

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Requirements for the Major:

Students take at least twelve courses in the department, with the following four courses as the core:

Design Fundamentals or Drawing

Sculpture and Three Dimensional Design

Photography

AVA 120 - Photography 1 - Aesthetics, Film, Chemistry & Printing

Printmaking

To complete their studio requirements, students take:

Two additional studio courses

Two advanced studio courses

Two art history courses

Two other studio courses chosen in consultation with a visual arts faculty advisor

Additional Requirements

Most majors will do either a two-term senior honors project (AVA 498 - AVA 499 ) leading to a solo exhibition in the spring term, or a one-term independent senior studio project (with an optional exhibition). These comprise in-depth study in a studio discipline in the senior year. A senior honors project takes the form of a two-term independent study focusing on the student’s particular area of interest in the visual arts during consecutive terms (first term, 498, pass/fail; second term, 499, with an overall grade for both terms). Visual arts majors who do not pursue a senior honors project may satisfy the WS requirement either through an art history senior seminar designated WS (for studio concentrators who have the necessary prerequisites in art history) or by obtaining a faculty sponsor for a one-term independent senior studio project with the required WS component.

Requirements for Honors in Studio Fine Arts:

Candidates must meet College qualifications for honors and secure approval from a visual arts faculty sponsor for the two-term project with culminating exhibit. Each honors student keeps a written journal during the two-term project, reflecting on his/her work. There is regular verbal and written input from the faculty sponsor. This journal forms the basis for a final paper of at least 15 pages, which satisfies the College’s senior writing (WS) requirement. There are additional requirements for honors in studio fine arts and they should be obtained from your visual arts advisor. Students pursuing a one-term senior project must also secure approval from a studio visual arts faculty sponsor.

Course Selection Guidelines

Placement: Incoming first-year students with Studio experience who are interested in placement beyond an introductory course should contact the department chair to arrange for a portfolio review with the appropriate Studio Art faculty.

Enrollment Limits: It is important to note that ALL introductory Studio Art courses are petition courses. Due to high demand and limited Studio Art facilities, declared Visual Arts majors and minors have priority in registration for all Studio Art courses, unless otherwise noted in the course listing schedule. Students who are interested in a major or a minor are strongly encouraged to meet with a member of the department and to declare as early as is practical. Most introductory courses reserve some openings for incoming first-year students in the fall term.

100-level courses: These courses are designed to introduce students to the fundamental materials and techniques of the various Studio Art disciplines. They do not carry prerequisites, nor do they require any previous Studio Art experience. These courses are suitable for first-year students, sophomores, juniors, and seniors; please note the enrollment priorities as stated above. Non-majors who are interested in these courses are strongly advised to consult with faculty before petitioning for these courses.

200-400-level courses: These courses are designed to build on the introductory courses, and all have introductory courses as their prerequisites. They are suitable for first-year students, sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

Internships, Independent Studies, and Thesis: These courses are generally reserved for advanced Studio Art students, but may be appropriate for other students as well. All students interested in these courses must consult with the Studio Art faculty and arrange academic sponsorship before registering for them.