Department of Visual Arts

DEPARTMENT OF VISUAL ARTS

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

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Our Philosophy

We believe that art is not only a means of self-expression but also a powerful tool for understanding the world around us. We strive to provide our undergraduate and graduate students with a comprehensive education in studio art and design while also integrating a Christian worldview into our curriculum. Our faculty members encourage students to explore their unique perspectives and experiences, while also challenging them to consider how their art can positively impact society. We believe that a commitment to excellence, creativity, and ethics is essential for success in the art world and beyond. The creative process fosters growth, change, and expansion of ideas, understanding, and potential.

OUR PROGRAMS

Undergraduate:

Our Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art is a professional degree that allows students to focus on their visual arts studies. Students develop a well-rounded knowledge of art history and have extensive training in a variety of studio areas including drawing, painting, printmaking, design, photography, ceramics, and sculpture. No minor is required. Students are encouraged and supported to specialize within the field, complete professional internships, and also learn professional practice skills to help them build a career in the visual arts.

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A Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from the University of Mobile prepares students to become professional graphic designers in a variety of settings including – corporate marketing, advertising agencies, tech companies, or as a small business design studio owner. Students develop a well-rounded knowledge of art and design history, studio art, print design, and user experience design. Students are encouraged and supported to specialize within the field while developing a professional portfolio of work, participating in mock interviews with industry professionals, and gaining valuable internship experience.

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Graduate:

The Graduate Certificate in Creative Practice places emphasis on the student’s individual studio research and strengths and offers advanced training and mentorship in the visual arts and design. Additionally, it provides professional development opportunities to art educators, working artists, and adult learners who are looking to pivot into visual arts or design-based careers. Through creative inquiry, research, and practice, students in the Graduate Certificate in Creative Practice program will have the opportunity to explore interdisciplinary approaches to art and design, as well as practical and legal issues faced by independent artists; grant and residency applications; and career opportunities in galleries, museums, and higher education.

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OUR STUDENTS

Our students are at the heart of our undergraduate art and design program. They benefit from our close-knit and friendly community where they can grow and learn together. Our dedicated faculty members provide additional support, ensuring that our students feel comfortable and supported as they pursue their passions in the arts. The faith-based worldview at the University of Mobile encourages our students to create artworks and designs that reflects their values and beliefs, helping them to become well-rounded individuals with a deep understanding of the world around them.

OUR ALUMNI

Our alumni are an integral part of our programs and we take great pride in their accomplishments. We love to share the success stories of our talented graduates!

Vannie Bohlen (2019)
Art Director, Lewis Communications

Caroline Ennis (2016)
Instructor of Ceramics and Ceramics Lab Supervisor, University of West Florida

Heath Vester (2016)
Assistant Vice President of Creative Services, University of Mobile

April Livingston (2006)
Instructor of Art and Art History; Working Artist, Sculptor, and Scenic Design/Prop Maker

OUR FACULTY

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OUR FACILITIES

Currently located in Farmer Hall, the visual arts department includes dedicated spaces for graphic design, painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture. Our studio spaces include a Dickerson Combination Electric Printing Press, Poco Proof Letterpress, Pacifica Pottery Wheels, Paragon Electric Kilns, Ryonet Exposure Unit, Bluebird Pug Mill, and a variety of woodworking tools. Our design lab includes 16 iMac computers, Adobe Creative Cloud Software, Canon large format printer and Konica Minolta Laser printer.

A new visual arts building is coming soon! See our Visual Arts Building Project.

Marilyn Foley Art Gallery

The Marilyn Foley Art Gallery, housed in Ben May Hall, is host to frequent exhibitions by notable artists. Students get the chance to learn and ask questions of the artists during gallery talks and campus receptions. Our gallery also showcases the work of our students during their senior thesis exhibitions and our yearly student art show.