Innovation, exploration, and knowledge are the cornerstones of CVPA’s Studio Art and the Expanded Field program. Our forward-thinking and comprehensive curriculum enables students to master their skills while exploring emerging genres in the pursuit of their individual path. Students in our program also benefit from studying within the context of a major research University where they can diversify their studies and expand career opportunities.
A Studio Art and the Expanded Field student will acquire fundamental skills while being exposed to contemporary practices through a wide spectrum of courses including painting, drawing, sculpture, installation, printmaking, mixed media, ceramics, fibers, metals, art and technology, collaborative practices, and more in the context of three areas of study: Painting, Drawing and 2D; Sculpture and 3D; Integrated Studio Arts. We value experimentation and curiosity, and challenge students to hone their critical thinking in a nurturing and supportive environment. Collaboration and community-engagement are woven throughout our curriculum.
Our students have opportunities for grant supported work, internships, faculty-led field trips to relevant exhibitions in metropolitan destinations, exposure to a robust roster of visiting artists and critics, and encouragement for interdisciplinary study. They exhibit their work in a variety of venues and can develop student-directed exhibitions.
The BFA program in Studio Art and the Expanded Field culminates in each student’s BFA capstone exhibition project in a professional museum or gallery setting. A graduating BFA student from our program has the experience and confidence to boldly enter a career in the visual arts and build a creative life amid the limitless possibilities available to the artist today.
Foundations Program
Required of All Majors (except Art History and Music)
The Foundations Program is a rigorous program designed to promote creativity, to develop technical and conceptual skills, and to provide an essential awareness of our visual culture. Its drawing, two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and digital courses serves as prerequisites-requisites for all 200 or higher-level courses in Art + Design and Art Education programs. Its art history component, Introduction to the Study of Art, serves as a prerequisite for higher-level Art History Program study that is demanded by each of the studio art departments.
Except where transfer or advance placement examination credits are accepted in lieu of requirements, first-year students may expect to take five courses, totaling 15 credits, in each of their two first-year semesters. The exception being Art Education majors due to of licensure requirements and increased credit load.
The successful completion of the Foundations program is a required of all candidates for a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree from the College of Visual and Performing Arts.
- ARH- Art History Elective (300/400 level) - Credits: 6
- ARH 102 - Introduction to the History of Art Credits: 3
- ARH 200 - Theory & Criticism of Art & Design Credits: 3
- FOU 101 - Visual Arts Seminar Credits: 3
- FOU 110 - Foundation:Struct Drawing Credits: 3
- FOU 120 - 2D Form and Surface Credits: 3
- FOU 130 - 3D Form and Space Credits: 3
- FOU 140 - Digital Essentials Credits: 3
University Studies / Distribution
- ENL 2XX Literature elective - Credits: 3
- MTH Mathematics elective - Credits: 3
- Science electives, 3 credits from each area (The Natural World and The Engaged Community) - Credits: 6
- The Social World: 3 credits from three areas (Human Questions and Contexts, The Nature of US Society, The Nature of the Global Society) - Credits: 9
- ENL 101 - Critical Writing and Reading I Credits: 3
- ENL 102 - Critical Writing and Reading II Credits: 3
Studio Art Track Requirements (27 credits)
- AXD ____ 2XX Intro Studio Track 3cr
- AXD____ 2XX Intro Studio Track 3cr
- AXD____ 2XX Intro Studio Track 3cr
- AXD ____ 3XX Intermediate Studio Track 9 cr
- AXD ____ 4XX Advanced Studio Track 9 cr
Studio Art Professional Practice and Community Engagement: 6 credits
- AXD 316 Art Careers and Practice 3cr
- AXD 407 Studio Art Capstone + Professional Practice
Studio Electives: 18 credits
AXD 2xx level drawing- credits: 3
AXD Digital Art course -credits: 3
300/400 studio elective- credits: 3
AXD Studio electives- credits: 9cr
5 Free Electives: 15 credits
Total Credits: 120
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