The Visual Arts program is studio-oriented with an emphasis on drawing and an overall philosophy that focuses on realism. The faculty developed a drawing program which assumes no ability for its entering students and aims to train them to draw figuratively at a professional level. Students entering the program may attain advanced placement relative to their artistic abilities.
Studio courses operate as ateliers (workshops) where the students are treated as responsible adult learners in a general atmosphere of individual attention and informal contact. As a teaching strategy, the instructor often works on his/her art alongside the students. Along with skill development, the program engages students in issues of character and responsibility through readings, writings and discussions. As seniors, students are required to develop a senior project that articulates, in image and word, the synthesis of their experiences at The University of Olivet and the relevance of the university’s academic vision of Education for Individual and Social Responsibility to their lives now and in the future.
The faculty/student ratio is small and there is maximum access to studio facilities. In addition to the introductory courses, a full complement of studio classes in sculpture, painting, graphic design, printmaking, and ceramics is offered. A graphic design major is offered as well as a visual arts major with concentrations in biological illustration and studio art, a visual arts dual discipline major with concentrations in pre-art therapy or visual arts business, and a visual arts minor.
Visual Arts - Biological Illustration Concentration
Biological illustration is a concentration offered jointly by the Visual Arts program and Biology program. The focus of this program is the specific application of visual/artistic skills towards biological/medical/scientific ends. The student is trained to draw realistically and accurately as well as to master a variety of commercial design skills involving the reproduction of graphic materials. These skills, along with biological course work, prepare the student to enter graduate programs leading to a master’s degree in biological/medical/ scientific illustration. This highly specialized field of study leads to a rewarding career combining art and biology. Interested students should contact members of the Visual Arts program and Biology program.
Visual Arts - Studio Arts Concentration
The studio arts concentration is geared toward those individuals who wish to express themselves through visual arts and aspire to build a career through their studio endeavors. This concentration also serves as a foundation for those wishing to attend a Master of Fine Arts graduate program in a specific studio focus with the possible intention of teaching at the college level.
Visual Arts Learning Outcomes
With the completion of this degree program, the following learning outcomes can be expected:
- Demonstrate proficiency in two-dimensional rendering (drawing) of three-dimensional forms.
- Demonstrate proficiency in two-dimensional composition.
- Analyze and critique underlying aesthetic principles, including the elements of design and principles of organization, and thematic content (social, political, historical, etc.) of works of art.
- Create and exhibit a body of work that synthesizes technical skills, individual artistic expression and relevant content.
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