Wake Forest University Department of Art is a vibrant and dynamic hub for artistic exploration, creativity, and academic excellence, offering students a transformative education in the visual arts. Located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and thriving arts community, the department is an integral part of Wake Forest University’s commitment to fostering intellectual growth, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning. With a curriculum that balances traditional techniques and contemporary practices, state-of-the-art facilities, and a faculty of accomplished artists and scholars, the Department of Art prepares students to excel as creative professionals, critical thinkers, and engaged global citizens.

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Academic Programs and Curriculum

The Department of Art at Wake Forest University offers a comprehensive range of academic programs designed to nurture artistic talent and intellectual curiosity. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Studio Art or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History, both of which provide a strong foundation in the visual arts while encouraging interdisciplinary exploration. The Studio Art program emphasizes hands-on learning across various media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and digital art. Students are encouraged to experiment with different techniques and materials, developing their unique artistic voice while mastering technical skills.

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The Art History program delves into the historical, cultural, and theoretical contexts of art, offering courses that span ancient to contemporary periods and cover diverse global traditions. Students gain critical analytical skills, learn to interpret visual culture, and explore the role of art in society. Both programs emphasize the importance of research, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving, preparing students for careers in the arts, academia, and beyond.

For students seeking a more intensive studio experience, the department offers a Minor in Studio Art, allowing those from other disciplines to integrate artistic practice into their academic journey. Additionally, the department supports interdisciplinary studies, enabling students to combine their art education with other fields such as psychology, business, or environmental studies.

Faculty and Mentorship

The Department of Art boasts a distinguished faculty of practicing artists, scholars, and educators who are deeply committed to student success. Faculty members are actively engaged in their respective fields, exhibiting their work nationally and internationally, publishing research, and contributing to the broader artistic community. Their expertise spans a wide range of disciplines, from traditional painting and sculpture to digital media and contemporary art theory.

Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and mentorship, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment. Faculty members work closely with students to help them develop their artistic vision, refine their technical skills, and navigate their career paths. This close-knit community encourages students to take creative risks, explore new ideas, and push the boundaries of their practice.

Facilities and Resources

The Department of Art is housed in the Scales Fine Arts Center, a state-of-the-art facility that provides students with access to exceptional resources and workspaces. The center features well-equipped studios for painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, and photography, as well as digital labs with the latest software and technology for graphic design, video editing, and digital art. The Suzanne L. and Michael D. Almond Sculpture Studio offers dedicated space for three-dimensional work, while the Printmaking Studio provides tools for traditional and experimental printmaking techniques.

The department also manages the Charlotte and Philip Hanes Art Gallery, a professional exhibition space that hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, historical works, and student shows. The gallery serves as a vital resource for students, offering opportunities to engage with original artworks, curate exhibitions, and gain practical experience in gallery management. Additionally, the Student Union Art Gallery provides a platform for students to showcase their work and gain exposure within the university community.

Experiential Learning and Opportunities

The Department of Art is committed to providing students with hands-on learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Through internships, study abroad programs, and community engagement initiatives, students gain real-world experience and build professional networks. The department has partnerships with local museums, galleries, and arts organizations, offering students opportunities to intern at institutions such as the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA) and the Reynolda House Museum of American Art.

Study abroad programs allow students to explore global art traditions and gain inspiration from diverse cultures. Popular destinations include Italy, France, and Japan, where students can study Renaissance art, modern European movements, or traditional Japanese techniques. These immersive experiences broaden students’ perspectives and deepen their understanding of art’s role in a global context.

Exhibitions and Events

The Department of Art organizes a vibrant calendar of exhibitions, lectures, and events that enrich the academic experience and connect students with the broader arts community. The Hanes Art Gallery hosts exhibitions by renowned artists, alumni, and faculty, as well as annual student shows that celebrate the creativity and talent of Wake Forest’s art students. Visiting artists and scholars are regularly invited to present their work, lead workshops, and engage with students, providing valuable insights into contemporary art practices and career paths.

The department also participates in university-wide events such as Wake Forest’s Annual Student Art Competition and Family Weekend Art Show, which showcase student work and foster a sense of community. These events provide students with opportunities to gain recognition, receive feedback, and connect with peers and mentors.

Alumni Success and Career Preparation

Graduates of the Wake Forest University Department of Art go on to pursue diverse and successful careers in the arts and beyond. Alumni work as professional artists, curators, educators, designers, and arts administrators, while others leverage their creative skills in fields such as marketing, publishing, and nonprofit management. The department’s emphasis on critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving equips students with transferable skills that are highly valued in today’s job market.

The department’s Career Services office provides tailored support to art students, offering guidance on portfolio development, graduate school applications, and job placement. Networking events, alumni panels, and career workshops help students build connections and explore potential career paths.

Community Engagement and Outreach

The Department of Art is deeply committed to engaging with the local community and promoting the arts as a catalyst for social change. Through partnerships with schools, community centers, and nonprofit organizations, students and faculty participate in outreach programs that bring art education and creative experiences to underserved populations. Initiatives such as Art for Social Change and Community Art Workshops demonstrate the department’s dedication to using art as a tool for empowerment, dialogue, and transformation.

Why Study Art at Wake Forest University?

The Wake Forest University Department of Art is a premier destination for students seeking a rigorous and inspiring education in the visual arts. With its comprehensive academic programs, exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to experiential learning, the department provides an unparalleled environment for artistic growth and intellectual exploration. Whether students aspire to become professional artists, scholars, or creative professionals, the Department of Art equips them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. By fostering creativity, critical thinking, and community engagement, the department continues to uphold Wake Forest University’s mission of educating the whole person and preparing students to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields.

Academic Programs Offered at Wake Forest University Department of Art

The Wake Forest University Department of Art provides a diverse array of academic programs designed to cultivate artistic talent, critical thinking, and creative expression. These programs are structured to offer students a comprehensive education in the visual arts, blending traditional techniques with contemporary practices. Below is a detailed outline of the programs offered, categorized by degree type and area of focus.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Studio Art

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Studio Art is a dynamic program that emphasizes hands-on learning and creative exploration across a variety of media. This program is ideal for students who wish to develop their artistic skills while engaging in a broad liberal arts education. The curriculum encourages experimentation and innovation, allowing students to discover their unique artistic voice.

Students in the Studio Art program take foundational courses in drawing, design, and art history, followed by advanced coursework in their chosen medium. Areas of specialization include painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and digital art. The program also incorporates critiques, seminars, and independent study opportunities, enabling students to refine their work and engage in meaningful dialogue with peers and faculty.

The BA in Studio Art typically requires four years of full-time study, culminating in a senior thesis project or exhibition. This program prepares students for careers as professional artists, designers, educators, and creative professionals, as well as for graduate study in fine arts.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History offers students a deep understanding of the historical, cultural, and theoretical contexts of art. This program explores the evolution of artistic traditions from ancient to contemporary periods, with a focus on diverse global cultures. Students develop critical analytical skills, learn to interpret visual culture, and examine the role of art in society.

The Art History curriculum includes courses on topics such as Renaissance art, modern and contemporary art, Asian art, and African art. Students also engage in research projects, museum studies, and curatorial practices, gaining practical experience in the field. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to connect art history with other disciplines such as history, literature, and anthropology.

The BA in Art History typically requires four years of full-time study. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in museums, galleries, arts administration, education, and academia, as well as for advanced study in art history or related fields.

Minor in Studio Art

For students pursuing majors outside the Department of Art, the Minor in Studio Art provides an opportunity to integrate artistic practice into their academic journey. This program allows students to explore their creative interests while developing technical skills and artistic proficiency.

The Minor in Studio Art requires a selection of foundational and advanced courses in areas such as drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, or digital art. Students work closely with faculty to tailor their coursework to their interests and goals. The minor typically requires five to six courses, which can be completed alongside a student’s major requirements.

This program is ideal for students who wish to complement their primary field of study with a creative outlet or who are considering careers that benefit from artistic skills, such as advertising, marketing, or design.

Interdisciplinary Opportunities

The Department of Art encourages students to pursue interdisciplinary studies, combining their art education with other academic interests. Students can integrate art with fields such as psychology, business, environmental studies, or computer science, creating a unique academic pathway that reflects their passions and career aspirations.

For example, a student majoring in psychology might explore the therapeutic applications of art, while a business major could focus on arts management or marketing. The department supports these interdisciplinary endeavors through flexible course offerings, independent study options, and faculty mentorship.

Study Abroad Programs

The Department of Art offers study abroad programs that allow students to explore global art traditions and gain inspiration from diverse cultures. These immersive experiences are designed to complement the department’s curriculum and broaden students’ perspectives.

Popular study abroad destinations include Italy, where students can study Renaissance art and architecture; France, with its rich history of modern and contemporary art; and Japan, known for its traditional and contemporary artistic practices. Programs typically range from two weeks to a full semester and include coursework, studio practice, and visits to museums, galleries, and cultural sites.

Senior Thesis and Capstone Projects

Both the BA in Studio Art and BA in Art History programs culminate in a senior thesis or capstone project, which serves as a showcase of the student’s skills, knowledge, and creative vision. Studio Art students typically present a body of work in a senior exhibition, while Art History students complete a research-based thesis or curatorial project.

These capstone experiences provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of their chosen discipline, engage in professional practices, and receive feedback from faculty and peers. The senior thesis or exhibition is a highlight of the student’s academic journey and a valuable addition to their portfolio or resume.

Comprehensive Art Programs

The Wake Forest University Department of Art offers a rich and diverse array of academic programs that cater to a wide range of artistic interests and career goals. Whether students are passionate about creating art, studying its history, or integrating art into other fields, the department provides the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to succeed. With its emphasis on creativity, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning, the Department of Art prepares students to excel as artists, scholars, and engaged global citizens.

Contact Information for Wake Forest University Department of Art:

• Address: Scales Fine Art Center, Rm 110A, P.O. Box 7232, Winston-Salem, NC 27109
• Phone: 336.758.5310
• Email: art@wfu.edu
• Website: https://art.wfu.edu/
• Social Media:
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wfuart/
  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/WFUArt