The Department of Art is committed to the study and practice of the visual arts as these relate to:
(a) Creative research in art practices (studio);
(b) Educational practice and theory (Art Education); and
(c) Critical study of art in its diverse historical and cultural settings (Art History).
Students in the BFA and BFA Honours (Visual Studies) are involved in creative research and visual art practices that engage with contemporary society. The courses of study enable the student to develop conceptual understanding in the visual arts, to develop a foundation of knowledge and practice of artistic self-sufficiency, to develop creative processes of planning in order to carry out their various studio interests, and to teach art in the elementary or secondary school systems or to work as art specialists in other settings. The program enables the individual student to determine through studio practice the understandings and insights that support their own artistic and intellectual development. Students interested in teacher certification may pursue the concurrent degree program with the Werklund School of Education, which offers three years of study in the Visual Studies program and two years in the Bachelor of Education program. The Visual Studies program provides a core of work in the theory and methodology of art education, as well as a foundation in studio art and Art History.
The BA (Art History) engages students in critical and creative analysis of art objects and cultural forms in a variety of historical, geopolitical, and cultural contexts.
The Minor in Museum and Heritage studies is intended to develop a critical and analytical perspective on the issues and future of museum and heritage resources. These encompass national parks and heritage sites, museums and art galleries, archives and historic buildings.
Faculty of Arts