Art Institutes Newsletter! Subscribe Now... learn more

Department of Art at the University at Buffalo

458 Views

Add Favorite

Description

The Department of Art at the University at Buffalo (UB) is a dynamic and innovative hub for artistic education, research, and creative practice, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in visual arts, including painting, sculpture, photography, graphic design, emerging practices, and more. Renowned for its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to fostering creativity, the department provides students with the tools, resources, and mentorship needed to excel in the ever-evolving world of contemporary art. With state-of-the-art facilities, a distinguished faculty of practicing artists, and a strong emphasis on experimentation and critical thinking, the Department of Art at UB stands as a leading institution for aspiring artists and designers seeking to push the boundaries of their craft.

Thank you for visiting Art Institutes, don't forget to subscribe to the Art Institutes Newsletter!

Department of Art at the University at Buffalo: A Comprehensive Overview

Art8 "Webinars for Creatives" https://art8.net

Academic Programs and Curriculum

The Department of Art at UB offers a diverse array of academic programs designed to cater to the unique interests and career goals of its students. These programs are structured to provide a balance of technical skill development, theoretical knowledge, and hands-on creative practice.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): This undergraduate program allows students to specialize in areas such as painting, sculpture, photography, graphic design, and emerging practices. The curriculum emphasizes studio practice, art history, and critical theory, preparing students for careers as professional artists or further academic study.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA): The MFA program is a highly selective, two-year graduate program that focuses on advanced studio practice and research. Students work closely with faculty mentors to develop a cohesive body of work and engage in critical discourse about contemporary art practices.
Art History Minor: For students interested in the historical and cultural context of art, the department offers a minor in art history. This program complements studio practice by providing a deeper understanding of the evolution of artistic movements and their impact on society.

Faculty and Research

The Department of Art boasts a distinguished faculty of practicing artists, scholars, and educators who are actively engaged in the global art community. Faculty members bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the classroom, offering students invaluable insights into contemporary art practices and trends. The department also encourages interdisciplinary research and collaboration, allowing students to explore connections between art and other fields such as technology, science, and social justice.

Faculty members regularly exhibit their work in national and international galleries, contribute to scholarly publications, and participate in residencies and conferences. This active engagement with the art world ensures that students are exposed to the latest developments in the field and have opportunities to network with professionals.

Facilities and Resources

The Department of Art is housed in the Center for the Arts, a state-of-the-art facility that provides students with access to cutting-edge tools and resources. The center features spacious studios, specialized workshops, and exhibition spaces that support a wide range of artistic practices.

Studios and Workshops: Students have access to dedicated studios for painting, sculpture, printmaking, and photography, as well as digital labs equipped with the latest software and hardware for graphic design and emerging media.
Exhibition Spaces: The department regularly hosts exhibitions in the UB Art Gallery and other on-campus venues, providing students with opportunities to showcase their work and gain exposure.
Resource Centers: The Visual Studies Workshop and the Poetry Collection offer additional resources for research and creative exploration, including rare books, archives, and multimedia materials.

Student Opportunities and Community Engagement

The Department of Art is committed to providing students with opportunities to engage with the broader art community and gain real-world experience. Through internships, residencies, and partnerships with local and international organizations, students can build professional networks and develop their portfolios.

Internships and Residencies: Students can participate in internships with galleries, museums, and design firms, as well as artist residencies that offer immersive creative experiences.
Study Abroad: The department encourages students to broaden their horizons through study abroad programs, which provide opportunities to explore global art traditions and practices.
Community Projects: Students are encouraged to participate in community-based art projects that address social issues and contribute to the cultural vitality of the region.

Alumni Success and Career Pathways

Graduates of the Department of Art at UB have gone on to achieve remarkable success in a variety of creative fields. Alumni work as professional artists, designers, educators, curators, and arts administrators, and their work is exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. The department’s strong emphasis on critical thinking, technical skill, and professional development ensures that students are well-prepared for diverse career pathways in the arts.

Why Choose the Department of Art at UB?

Choosing the Department of Art at the University at Buffalo means joining a vibrant community of artists, scholars, and innovators who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of creative expression. With its comprehensive programs, world-class facilities, and commitment to fostering artistic excellence, the department provides an unparalleled educational experience for aspiring artists and designers. Whether you are interested in traditional media or cutting-edge technologies, the Department of Art at UB offers the resources and support you need to achieve your artistic goals.

Academic Programs Offered at the Department of Art at the University at Buffalo

The Department of Art at the University at Buffalo (UB) offers a diverse range of academic programs designed to nurture creativity, technical skill, and critical thinking. These programs cater to students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, providing opportunities to explore various artistic disciplines and prepare for professional careers in the arts. Below is a detailed outline of the programs offered, categorized by degree level and specialization.

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

The BFA program is a comprehensive undergraduate degree that allows students to specialize in a specific area of visual arts. The program emphasizes studio practice, art history, and critical theory, providing a well-rounded education for aspiring artists and designers. Students can choose from the following concentrations:

Painting: Focuses on traditional and contemporary painting techniques, color theory, and composition. Students develop a personal artistic voice while exploring the historical and cultural contexts of painting.
Sculpture: Covers a wide range of materials and techniques, including woodworking, metalworking, and installation art. Students learn to create three-dimensional works that engage with space and form.
Photography: Explores both analog and digital photography, including darkroom techniques, digital editing, and conceptual approaches to image-making. Students are encouraged to experiment with the medium to develop a unique visual style.
Graphic Design: Combines design principles, typography, and digital tools to create visual communication solutions. Students work on projects that range from branding and advertising to web design and interactive media.
Emerging Practices: Focuses on interdisciplinary and experimental approaches to art-making, incorporating new media, performance, and technology. Students explore innovative ways to create and present art in a rapidly changing world.

Duration: The BFA program typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.

Art History Minor

For students interested in the historical and cultural context of art, the department offers a minor in Art History. This program complements studio practice by providing a deeper understanding of the evolution of artistic movements and their impact on society. Courses cover a wide range of topics, from ancient art to contemporary practices.

Duration: The Art History minor can be completed alongside a major in any discipline and typically requires 18 credit hours.

Graduate Programs

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

The MFA program is a highly selective, two-year graduate program designed for students who wish to pursue advanced study in visual arts. The program emphasizes individual studio practice, critical theory, and professional development. Students work closely with faculty mentors to develop a cohesive body of work and engage in critical discourse about contemporary art practices.

Studio Art: Allows students to specialize in areas such as painting, sculpture, photography, or emerging practices. The program encourages experimentation and interdisciplinary approaches to art-making.
Thesis Exhibition: Culminates in a thesis exhibition, where students present their work to the public and a committee of faculty members. This exhibition serves as a capstone experience and a professional showcase of the student’s artistic achievements.

Duration: The MFA program typically takes two years of full-time study to complete.

Additional Opportunities

Study Abroad Programs

The Department of Art encourages students to broaden their horizons through study abroad programs. These programs provide opportunities to explore global art traditions and practices, enriching students’ educational experiences and inspiring new creative directions.

Duration: Study abroad programs vary in length, ranging from short-term summer courses to semester-long exchanges.

Internships and Residencies

Students in the Department of Art have access to a variety of internships and residencies that offer real-world experience and professional development. These opportunities allow students to work with galleries, museums, design firms, and other arts organizations, building valuable skills and networks.

Duration: Internships and residencies vary in length, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months.

Community-Based Art Projects

The department actively engages with the local community through art projects that address social issues and contribute to the cultural vitality of the region. Students are encouraged to participate in these projects, gaining experience in collaborative and socially engaged art practices.

Duration: Community-based projects vary in length, depending on the scope and goals of the initiative.

The Department of Art at the University at Buffalo offers a rich and diverse array of academic programs and opportunities, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education in the visual arts. Whether pursuing a BFA, MFA, or minor in Art History, students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to succeed in the dynamic world of contemporary art.

Contact information for the Department of Art at the University at Buffalo:

Address: 202 Center for the Arts, University at Buffalo, North Campus, Buffalo, New York 14260-6010
Phone: (716) 645-6878
Fax: (716) 645-6970
Email: art-info@buffalo.edu
Website: https://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu/art/about/contact-us.html
Social Media:
- Instagram: @ubuffaloart
- Facebook: UBuffaloArt (primarily shares content from Instagram)
- YouTube: UBuffaloArt (focuses on the Fall Visiting Artist Speaker Series, interviews, and performance art)

emerging practices Interdisciplinary art programs artist residency art facilities creative arts resources MFA in Studio Art UB Center for the Arts contemporary art education Coalesce Center for Biological Art study abroad art programs UB Poetry Collection photography darkrooms Emerging Practices MFA art history minor Squeaky Wheel collaboration University at Buffalo Art Department Techne Institute UB Art programs Buffalo Arts Studio partnership BFA in Visual Arts UB Visiting Artist Lecture Series Center for the Arts socially engaged art UB UB Art Gallery bio-art UB digital fabrication lab UB art facilities sculpture studios UB unique art programs graphic design labs

Features & Benefits

Dedicated Academic Advising

Alumni Network and Mentorship

Guest Artist Residency Programs

Portfolio Development Workshops

Professional Networking Events

Accredited Programs

Collaborative Cross-Disciplinary Projects

Financial Aid Available

Accredited and Recognized Programs

Scholarships Offered

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Equipment

Career Placement Assistance

Diverse Student Body and Campus Community

Student Housing Options

Commitment to Sustainability and Impact

On-Campus Galleries/Exhibitions

Public Art Exhibitions and Installations

Hands-On Studio/Lab Facilities

Artist-in-Residence Programs

Visiting Artist Lectures/Workshops

Community Gallery Space and Arts Rentals

Study Abroad/Exchange Programs

Arts-Integrated City/Regional Planning

Student Clubs and Organizations

Campus Art Supplies Store

Services

Coalesce Center for Biological Art

A one-of-a-kind facility within the Department of Art, Coalesce merges art and biology, offering students access to wet labs, microscopes, and biotechnological tools to create bio-art projects.

Squeaky Wheel Film and Media Arts Collaboration

UB’s partnership with Squeaky Wheel, a Buffalo-based media arts center, provides students with access to film, video, and digital media resources, as well as opportunities to participate in screenings and workshops.

UB’s Techne Institute for Arts and Emerging Technologies

A unique research initiative within the Department of Art, the Techne Institute explores the intersection of art, science, and technology, offering students access to advanced tools and collaborative research opportunities.

Buffalo Arts Studio Partnership

UB’s collaboration with Buffalo Arts Studio provides students with opportunities to exhibit their work in a professional gallery setting and engage with the local arts community through residencies and internships.

UB Art Gallery’s Permanent Collection

The UB Art Gallery houses a distinctive permanent collection of over 3,000 works, including pieces by renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Robert Longo, providing students with direct access to study and engage with significant art historical and contemporary works.

Emerging Practices MFA Focus

UB’s Department of Art is one of the few programs in the U.S. to offer a dedicated focus on Emerging Practices, emphasizing interdisciplinary, experimental, and technology-driven art forms.

Center for the Arts

The Department of Art is housed in the state-of-the-art Center for the Arts, which provides students with access to cutting-edge studios, workshops, and exhibition spaces.

UB Art Gallery

A premier exhibition space on campus where students can showcase their work and engage with contemporary art practices through curated exhibitions and events.

Visual Studies Workshop

A unique resource center offering access to rare books, archives, and multimedia materials for research and creative exploration.

Digital Fabrication Lab

A specialized facility equipped with advanced tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines for students working in emerging practices and digital media.

Photography Darkrooms and Labs

Fully equipped darkrooms and digital labs for both analog and digital photography, supporting students in developing their technical and creative skills.

Sculpture and Woodworking Studios

Dedicated spaces for sculpture and woodworking, featuring tools and equipment for working with a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and mixed media.

Graphic Design Computer Labs

Modern computer labs with industry-standard software and hardware for graphic design, web design, and interactive media projects.

Emerging Practices Studio

A flexible, interdisciplinary workspace designed for students experimenting with new media, performance, and technology-driven art forms.

Artist-in-Residence Program

A program that brings renowned artists to campus to work alongside students, offering mentorship, workshops, and lectures.

Study Abroad and Global Art Initiatives

Opportunities for students to participate in international art programs, residencies, and collaborations, fostering a global perspective on art and culture.