Visual Arts

Kelly Glentz Brush, Associate Professor
Harry Mueller, Associate Professor
Philip Parisi, Associate Professor
Barclay Tucker, Professor

B.F.A. Animation/Illustration
B.F.A. Design
B.A. Visual Communications
A.S. Visual Arts
A.S. Visual Communications
Minors: Visual Arts, Photography, Cinema Production

Mission Statement

In a spirited and engaging environment, the Visual Arts programs are a venue for dynamic self-expression, challenging students to become adept problem-solvers and expand the breadth of their design, communication, artistic techniques and personal aesthetic. Awareness of art history and contemporary visual culture provides context for innovative practice, fostering visual literacy through hands-on coursework that demands original thought, stimulates critical thinking, and instills passion for the visual arts.

Common Program Goals

Upon completion of the BFA and BA programs students will have:

An entry-level portfolio specific to the major
An ability to use design principles to communicate effectively
Expertise and professionalism in the development process for the visual arts
Competency and creative skills in using animation, graphic design, illustration, and/ or web design software
An ability to work collaboratively and independently in solving specific design problems

Acceptance into the Visual Arts Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree Programs

Before completion of the sophomore year, students majoring in Animation/Illustration and Design will be required to complete Design Seminar and Design Review. Acceptance into Design Seminar and Design Review for all BFA majors is completion of the Studio foundation (BFA Animation/Illustration) and Foundation (BFA Design) courses. Design Review is the sophomore capstone course in which BFA majors will complete a compressive project and review by the Visual Arts faculty.

Program Assessment

The Visual Arts Department assesses its BA and BFA program goals in four primary ways:

Design Studio client evaluations
Internship supervisor evaluations
Design Review Evaluations
Senior portfolio presentations
Gallery exhibition and presentations (BFA only)