Outcome Statements for Art Studio Majors

PDF Version

Foundation Outcomes

A. Demonstrate safe working habits and a general understanding of materials and processes in the visual arts.
B. Employ methods of visual analysis necessary for critical judgments about ones creative processes and decisions.
C. Integrate critical methods of describing, analyzing and judging visual experiences that are used in making oral and written interpretations of visual art.
D. Develop an awareness of compositional and organizational strategies for the effective deployment of formal elements of visual art.
E. Appreciate and express the cultural significance of art and understand its evolution and purposes.

Intermediate & Advanced Outcomes

A. Show a practical and technical command of materials and methods in one or more media of the visual arts.
B. Create a body of work that transmits specific intent, personal insight, attitude or expression.
C. Compare and interpret historic and cultural traditions and contemporary issues, particularly as they influence ones personal objectives.
D. Prepare effective and professional presentations of art works.

Differences in expected outcomes between BA and BFA Studio

It is expected that the broader technical and more advanced conceptual experiences acquired by students in the BFA program will distinguish their outcomes from students in the BA program in both quantitative and qualitative ways. While differences in outcome between BA and BFA students are generally expected they may not easily be measured in individual circumstances. Among the higher general expectations in the BFA program are:

• Stronger habits of disciplined inquiry and critical thinking.
• A developed capacity for visual expression and creative innovation and a more personalized visual vocabulary.
• Greater competence in specific areas of visual arts technologies resulting in a more fluid connection between intent and execution.
• A higher degree of preparation for success in advanced levels of graduate study and personal career objectives.

Studio Outcome Assessment - MEANS

Foundation and Intermediate Level:

Grades

The department does not require an entry level portfolio. Students are regularly graded on the basis of their understanding and execution of assignments. Grades are an indication of homework and classroom performance as well as an appraisal of the student’s ability to articulate intents and objectives. In addition students are also graded on their participation in class critiques and their ability to employ processes and techniques efficiently.

• Greater familiarity with contemporary issues in the visual arts and a sense of ones individual position in the evolution of art.

The Sophomore Review

Students who have completed studio classes in the Foundation Program write a statement of purpose ( progress questionnaire ) explaining their perceived strengths and weaknesses, creative interests, artistic backgrounds and career objectives. An exhibition representative of their accomplishments in foundation classes is presented to a jury of the faculty. During the interview students and faculty assess progress and goals. Each student receives an evaluation sheet summarizing the judgment of participating faculty. Documentation of the student’s level of achievement in this progress evaluation is filed for reference.

The Annual Juried Student Show

The annual juried student exhibition, open to art students at all levels and presenting work in all media, acquaints the faculty, and the community at large, with student performance and studio results from both BA and BFA programs. This is an informal yet informative end of year assessment and an opportunity to recognize excellence.

Advanced Levels and Exit Capstone:

Senior Seminar and Advanced Studios

Students in Senior Seminar and advanced studios are require to propose and explain their project objectives for the semester in written or oral formats. There are regular consultations with the faculty, class critiques and reviews by artists. Students write statements of purpose and intent. Faculty members also supervise the selection of work for graduate portfolios. This practical preparation for career interviews and graduate admissions is a valuable means of outcome assessment.

Senior Exhibition and Thesis Statement

All graduating seniors are encouraged to mount a senior exhibition. This is a capstone exit tradition. They are responsible for a comprehensive exhibition statement and exhibition announcement. Their selected works must demonstrate conceptual direction, thematic consistency, professionalism, integrity and technical command.

Career Appointments / Graduate School Admissions

For purposes of recruitment, the department unofficially tracks senior art majors and alumni as they enter graduate programs and the employment marketplace. Their accomplishments are an indirect, external, indicator of the department’s success in achieving its outcome objectives.