Sculpture
Sculpture is truly the meta-medium, spanning the conceptual to the material. What are now independent disciplines, at one time were nurtured and developed by artists who thought of themselves as sculptors. Here at the URI Sculpture Department we explore emerging techniques, new materials, hybrid methodologies and encourage cross boundary activity. In the expansive sculptural field we feel it is our role to be, among other things, a guide through the many possibilities sculpture can offer.
The philosophic goals we strive for in sculpture at the University of Rhode Island are to:
- Establish a strong foundation that is structured, instills self-discipline, and introduces a variety of techniques that are based in traditional and emerging sculptural media and techniques.
- Establish a studio space that is a sanctuary for experimentation and interdisciplinary art making, a place where hybrid processes and cross boundary activity have a forum.
- Nurture a curriculum that will enable students to begin to identify personal interests, become increasingly self- directed and build toward an independent practice of art making that is relevant to the culture.
- Educate students to personal safety issues and the studio environment they are working in, without hindering the experience of exploration.
What is unique to the URI sculpture program is its free spirited independence; this is fortified with technical skill and theoretical exercise. We have created a curriculum that balances state of the art technology with a hands on spirit, where students have access to sophisticated equipment but are not obliged to make it part of their study. Instead students will be encouraged to explore processes and innovative content in areas of object making, installation, site work and sound.
Sculpture facility includes:
- Clay and plaster area
- TIG welder
- Pug mill
- MIG welder
- Kiln Oxygen acetylene welder
- Woodworking equipment
- Plasma cutter
- Band saws
- Sanders
- Drill press
- Hasfeld bender
- Table saw
- Hand tools
Other Concentrations
Department Chair
Ronald Onorato
Office Hours:
Monday 10:30pm to 12m
Tuesday/Thursday 2pm to 3pm
Or by appointment
FAC 207
News and Events
A&AH 2009-2010 Newsletter (PDF)
