The Expressive Arts Department

The Expressive Arts Department offers courses in Visual Art which contribute to the university’s mission of teaching excellence as its preeminent goal.

The Expressive Arts Department Mission Statement

We embrace all student’s innate creativity while guiding them in developing their critical thinking and problem solving skills. We teach our students perseverance, dexterity and curiosity as they cultivate their personal artistic vision and style. From this solid foundation, the arts at WNMU instill cultural diversity, discipline, willingness to experiment and confidence – skills that are imperative to success in the arts and future careers. Our proximity to The Gila National Forest and the world’s first designated wilderness area provides our students with the opportunity to explore one of the most bio diverse natural landscapes for artistic inspiration, influence and creation. Our students will be valued as creative innovators and problem solvers with strong visual communication skills which they will carry with them into the diverse, rapidly evolving workplace.

ART DISCIPLINE

Art students enrolled at WNMU have options towards professional careers in the visual arts. The Art Major BA/BS  degree allows students the broad exposure to the art core program.

The A.A. degree in Graphic Design leads towards the computer related workforce.

The B.F.A. Program requires an application process and a strong, competitive portfolio for admission and is designed as preparation for graduate study.

Art as a discipline provides the facilities and assistance for developing competence in the visual arts, art education, art history, and the graphic arts.

Undergraduate Art Student Learning Outcomes

WNMU Expressive Arts students will graduate with a comprehensive ability to…

…design effective and intentional compositions, using visual or musical elements and principles to demonstrates a strong aesthetic.

…utilize the full possibilities of their artistic medium, technically and critically aware of its effective use and creative potentials.

…assess how the arts find meaning in context, with critical awareness of historic and contemporary possibilities.

… incorporate feedback, analyzing and expressing critical understanding of their work and that of others through written and spoken communication.

…present professional level works that are representative of their own creative vision.

Department Goals

Collaborate to enhance the quality, visibility, exposure and recognition of the Expressive Arts department, encouraging research and supporting established programs.

Strengthen the Expressive Arts programs by implementing effective assessment measures, mentorship, and established university processes.

Partner with other departments at WNMU to strengthen processes and expand opportunities.

Keep the curriculum current and aligned with evolving needs.