The 30-unit M.A. in Art option in Visual Arts emphasizes the experience and value of visual thinking and creative problem solving in art, as well as recognizing the concurrent importance of critical thinking, experimentation, innovation and perception. Graduate students must understand the history and traditions of art and their cultural, political and social relevance. They are encouraged to utilize and interact with the services, facilities and technologies offered throughout the University, as well as those provided by the Department of Art and Design. The program has areas of concentration in Ceramics, Drawing, Illustration, Painting, Photography/Video, Printmaking, and Sculpture. The goals of the Department of Art and Design are to establish and develop for students an inclusive and balanced program in visual art, which encompass three areas of study: art education, art history and visual arts. Students are taught to experience and value visual thinking and creative problem solving in art, as well as to recognize the concurrent importance of perception, experimentation, innovation and critical thinking. Students will also understand the history and traditions of art, with their relevance to social and community concerns, as well as the art of different cultures.
Illustration can be seen in many businesses including entertainment, publishing, merchandising, advertising and galleries. In this area of concentration, you will study illustration as both an art form and as a profession. Topics cover historical and contemporary illustration and its evolving styles and technologies.
Professional preparation topics include portfolio and website development, goal setting, researching employment opportunities, self-promotion and business and trade practices. Students learn methods for creating new ideas and for the effective visual communication of those ideas. Projects emphasize a wide range of technical skills in fine art and digital media, conceptual problem-solving abilities, composition and design, self-expression and the development of a personal artistic vision.
