A Message from the Chair
Light makes all things visible possible. And before all other measurable visual elements, it gives meaning and life to art. Light has a finite speed, therefore requiring time, even if hidden from human senses. Its speed is seen as a constant in our universe, shaping everything from modern sciences and technologies, to determining the distance of the moon, our sun, the planets of our solar system, and the very age of the universe itself. Light is essential to understanding how we see, interpret, describe, and analyze things in our world; but moreover, provides the basic means for constructing meaning from those things we observe and interact with.
We have entered an exciting period in the existence of the Department of Art and Art History. The current generation of college students comes to our department expecting smart classrooms, the latest advances in technology, a creative and imaginative curriculum, and opportunities to explore history, types of art, and their own potential. We are working very hard to meet their expectations.
Art and Art History faculty use a variety of multi-media technologies to support the classroom experience. Our studios are well equipped, supporting in-depth professional training in drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, film, digital photography, and digital art and design. Our Main Gallery displays several major exhibitions each year; our Project Room is a space dedicated to showcasing projects in various stages of progress. The Italo Scanga Visiting Artist Program brings in exceptional nationally and internationally recognized artists. Our students travel to New York City and Boston museums and galleries, gain experience through internships, and have the opportunity to exhibit their work on campus and in the region. They also take advantage of our online gallery, which remains available after they have graduated.
At a time of renewed skepticism in many corners of society, our vision is strong, our determination to become better is resolute, and our commitment to meet the challenges of this new generation of students is electrifying. Our motto is "Motivate, Collaborate, Innovate, Create - Get Inspired." And this is how we plan to help our students construct meaning from those things they observe and interact with in the visual world. The Department of Art and Art History has created its own light, has set its speed, and is showing its students how to illuminate all things.
Bob Dilworth
Chair
Department of Art & Art History
