PAINTING + DRAWING OVERVIEW
Western Carolina University’s Department of Art offers both the Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Studio Art with concentrations in Painting and Drawing or a combination of these two studio areas. Although a student may choose to emphasize one or the other, within this studio concentration drawing and painting are not seen as separate activities, but as interrelated and integrated. Indeed, drawing is seen as important preparation for the artist’s ability to think visually in any medium. The ability to create and realize three-dimensional form on a two-dimensional surface––and to extend the objectification of a perceptual viewing of the world into symbolic and expressive realms is a focus of introductory classes in this concentration. Study of contemporary and historical works, readings in contemporary criticism and writings by other artists, trips to regional museums and galleries, and instruction in techniques and materials provide a solid point of departure for subsequent studio experimentation. The emphasis in the concentration is not dogmatic. Rather it encourages each student to develop, through the practice of painting and drawing, a personally expressive visual language of form and color.

Facilities in Painting + Drawing
New facilities in WCU’s Fine & Performing Arts Center provide for dedicated group painting and drawing studios, including a separate studio for life drawing. A large, shared studio with individual spaces for intermediate and advanced students in the concentration promotes a vital exchange of ideas and discoveries but makes possible a continuity of daily individual work. Students’ access to studios for long hours, availability of life models, regular group critiques and rigorous work in and outside of class are a constant in all courses. Visiting artists and the Department’s Artists-in-Residence Program bring artists and painters of national and international reputation to the campus. A facility for expanded experimentation with materials is planned.