Stimulating Ideas through Works

Students enrolled in the two-year graduate program work in a professional studio environment and are given the responsibility and the freedom to develop their critical thinking and artistic output under the guidance of their Artist-in-Residence/Department Head.  Each department of fifteen students is headed by one distinguished Artist-in-Residence/Department Head, who provides an intimate and intense educational experience.

The department promotes an interdisciplinary and relational approach to thinking.  The spectrum of ideas and materials that are developed and explored within this matrix often provoke discussion about the context of art in contemporary culture.  Works produced range from discreet objects to installation, performance, interactive works, and various modes of digital output.  Evolving technologies are employed along with traditional means of producing such as screen printing, weaving, sewing, dyeing, and others, offering students opportunities ready to be explored and assimilated into studio practice.

Distinguished visiting artists and critics are invited to the department to give lectures and critiques.  Department initiatives include two textile design projects in collaboration with Crypton Fabrics as well as study trips to Turkey, Mexico, Spain, and within the US.