Areas of Study

Drawing, Painting, and Printmaking

Through a rigorous and varied curriculum that explores traditional processes, analog and digital methods, and new forms, students in Drawing, Painting, and Printmaking are encouraged to investigate the broad terrain of visual art while cultivating their creative skills and aesthetic instincts. Our faculty of practicing artists embrace an interdisciplinary approach to art-making that offers flexibility, critical thinking, and the open exchange of ideas and practices within these disciplines. Expansive state-of-the-art facilities offer students inspiring spaces and a full range of equipment with which to pursue their ideas.

Faculty (full-time and term): Amanda Lee, Lamar Peterson, Jenny Schmid, Mathew Zefeldt

Sculpture and Ceramics

The sculpture and ceramics area supports students in their investigations ranging from utilitarian object-making traditions to interdisciplinary sculpture practice. Students have access to the entire art department’s faculty and state-of-the-art facilities. This broad approach allows for cross-disciplinary, conventional, and experimental investigations. Students are encouraged to develop a body of work with a thorough understanding of its conceptual premise within the context of creative research and contemporary art. Innovative coursework challenges the critical and artistic skills of students at beginning and advanced levels. Through thoughtful discussion, critical examination, and rigorous evaluation of concepts and ideas, the area helps students situate their own practice within an understanding of its rich traditions. Beginning courses introduce concepts basic to the understanding of three-dimensional visual language, the use of materials, tools, and the creative process. Advanced courses provide the opportunity to develop strategies for professional studio practice, independent creative research, and a personal vision.

Faculty (full-time and term): Chotsani Elaine Dean, Chris Larson, Rotem Tamir, Tetsuya Yamada

Photography and Moving Images

Photography and Moving Images takes an expansive approach to these disciplines, reflecting new ways that images are created, circulate, and function while building on a sound technical and theoretical foundation. Faculty foster interdisciplinary explorations and rigorous development of personal vision. The modern facility and technical staff support work in current and emerging digital technologies as well as traditional analog media. Engagement with the vibrant Twin Cities arts community and hands-on teaching experience are at the core of our program, preparing students to excel, innovate and redefine the role of professional imaging artists in society.

Faculty (full-time and term): Pao Houa Her, Lynn Lukkas, Monica Moses Haller, Paul Shambroom

Interdisciplinary Art and Social Practice

Interdisciplinary Art and Social Practice takes an experiential, integrated approach to learning and artmaking, one that foregrounds the connections between intellectual investigation and material, social, and technological exploration. Classes in the area highlight interdisciplinary ways of working, making, and thinking and use a wide range of pedagogical approaches, including traditional making, individual studio assignments, collaborative environments, interdisciplinary investigations, performative exercises, field experience, emerging technology, socially engaged approaches, experiential learning, mindfulness, and discursive and writerly practices. Specific topics explored include the relationship between art, environment, and community; the relationship between art, philosophy, writing, and contemplative practices; the relationship between art, social justice, cultural studies, and critical theory; and the relationship between art, technology, architecture, and science.

Faculty (full-time and term): Christine Baeumler, Christina Schmid, Diane Willow