Bachelor of Arts in Art
The Bachelor of Arts in Art in the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (CHASS) at the University of the Incarnate Word shapes the next generation of artists and the artistically minded through the development of technical competence, professionalism, context, expression and mastery of discipline.
Why earn a degree in Art?
Art majors are critical thinkers, creative, adaptable and flexible. They can interpret information and express concepts and ideas in new and exciting ways. Students who major in Art have the flexibility to pursue a wide range of exciting career paths in the professional art world or related industries. They are also well prepared for entry into a Master of Fine Art (MFA) program. A degree in art offers an appreciation for the arts and a deeper understanding of its role in cultures and societies, which promotes lifelong learning, curiosity and creativity. UIW’s Bachelor of Arts in Art degree program also integrates professional skill development and an understanding of the business and culture of the art world, all of which support career readiness.
Art Curriculum
The B.A.in Art degree is a 121-hour degree program that emphasizes the understanding of art through studio, theory, applied and art history courses. The program provides students a general foundation in art through creative work and discerning observation. The Art curriculum includes coursework in drawing, design, painting, printmaking, ceramics and photography, providing opportunities for students to explore different disciplines while they refine their style and point of view. Students will also take courses in art history, providing historical, cultural, political and economic context to artistic endeavors. Through the Art program, students develop personal awareness and individual self-expression.
As they grow in skill and talent, students also advance their understanding of the art world and how to navigate it as a working professional. Courses in studio management provide critical experience in art studio organization and administration. Art students also experience internships in museums, photo studios and in the non-profit arts sector – all as part of their coursework.
Portfolio Development
As part of the Senior Studio class, art majors will work individually with their instructor to develop a portfolio in a single discipline, be it drawing, painting, photography or sculpture. In addition to one-on-one development, class time is devoted to critique of works in progress. At the end of the course, students will have curated a professional-level portfolio that they can then use as they enter the workforce or move forward to their next endeavor.
The Kelso Art Center provides the resources and facilities need for students to receive a superlative arts education. It has separate spaces and designated studios for drawing, painting, printmaking, photography and art history as well as three galleries, including the Semmes Gallery and a student gallery.
The facility offers students updated technologies and resources including a computer lab for digital photography, two darkroom labs for photo classes, and a designated lighting studio for photography students as well as an exposure unit for photographic screen-printing processes.
Careers in Art
Graduates of the UIW undergraduate Art program have gone on to work as art teachers in primary or secondary school levels as well as college/university levels, coordinators for city art programs such as afterschool and public art programs, grant writers for museums and non-profit organizations, conservators to restore vintage work, curators and arts administrators in the non-profit sector, among other roles in the professional art industry.