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Studio Art

Get creative with a Studio Art degree, major or minor, from Graceland University.

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Follow Your Passion for Visual Expression Through Graceland's Art Majors

Graceland students get their studio art degree from Graceland encounter a contemporary program designed to prepare students to be socially engaged world-changers, have successful arts-centered careers, and pursue lifelong engagement in the visual arts. Graceland provides a place for gifted and motivated students to thrive, encouraging self-sufficiency and meaningful communication and collaboration while studying in our extraordinary Helene Center for Visual Arts. Students can explore painting, sculpture, printmaking, design, and more as they develop their own creative viewpoint rooted in the fundamentals of art and design and are prepared for many careers with a studio art degree. 

Graceland’s liberal arts campus environment encourages students to think critically in many areas of thought, so they have room to pursue other interests like the arts and athletics while working toward their art majors. 

Offerings
Major, Minor
Field of Study
Art, Visual & Performing Arts
Format
Lamoni Campus
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Apply Admissions Request Info
Studio Art Major Curriculum

Studio Art is one of two tracks available under the Art major. In order to complete this program, you must complete both the core requirements for an Art major, and the Studio Art track requirements.

  • BA Degree - Art: Core Requirements

    In addition to the general education requirements, students majoring in Art will complete either a studio or graphic design track. Each track is 36 credits as prescribed below:

    Core classes required for both tracks:

    Pick one art history course (General Education Requirement):

    Pick one studio course:

    Courses Offered
    • ARTS1210Making and Meaning
      ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

      Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS1230Drawing
      ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

      This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    • ARTS1680Graphic Design 1
      ARTS1680 Graphic Design 1 - 3 s.h.

      A technical course exploring the digital tools used in the graphic design industry. Students are exposed to the function, theory, and use of industry-standard computer hardware, software, and basic digital design principles utilized in the production of graphic design. 

    • ARTS2250Painting
      ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

      This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    • ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics
      ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

      Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    • ARTS3110Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice
      ARTS3110 Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice - 3 s.h.

      Theme-based art history course that explores topics such as activism, empathy, justice, disability, mental illness, feminism, sexuality, queer art, social and civic engagement, labor, and race throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Equality, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    • ARTS3200Printmaking
      ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

      This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS4700Senior Exhibition
      ARTS4700 Senior Exhibition - 3 s.h.

      A required senior- level course where students identify and critically reflect on a theme that intersects with their own studio practice, or discipline. This course supplements preparations for the capstone exhibition through the analysis of area exhibitions, providing hands-on experience in the mechanics of exhibition production. Portfolio development and professional practices will be emphasized.  Permission from instructor required.

    ARTS1210Making and Meaning ARTS1230Drawing ARTS1680Graphic Design 1 ARTS2250Painting ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics ARTS3110Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice ARTS3200Printmaking ARTS4700Senior Exhibition
    Course Descriptions
    ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

    Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

    This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    ARTS1680 Graphic Design 1 - 3 s.h.

    A technical course exploring the digital tools used in the graphic design industry. Students are exposed to the function, theory, and use of industry-standard computer hardware, software, and basic digital design principles utilized in the production of graphic design. 

    ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

    This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

    Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    ARTS3110 Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice - 3 s.h.

    Theme-based art history course that explores topics such as activism, empathy, justice, disability, mental illness, feminism, sexuality, queer art, social and civic engagement, labor, and race throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Equality, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

    This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS4700 Senior Exhibition - 3 s.h.

    A required senior- level course where students identify and critically reflect on a theme that intersects with their own studio practice, or discipline. This course supplements preparations for the capstone exhibition through the analysis of area exhibitions, providing hands-on experience in the mechanics of exhibition production. Portfolio development and professional practices will be emphasized.  Permission from instructor required.

  • BA Degree - Studio Art Track Requirements

    Studio Track

    In addition to the core courses, Studio Art students will take additional coursework outlined below:

    Courses Offered
    • ARTS1220Surface, Space, and Time
      ARTS1220 Surface, Space, and Time - 3 s.h.

      Introduction to surface, space, and time as an artistic medium. Lectures, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on projects help students identify and understand surface, space, and time-based principles in art and design. Emphasis will be places on three-dimensional and four-dimensional narrative and visual storytelling practices.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS3220Photography
      ARTS3220 Photography - 3 s.h.

      An exploration into visual story telling through digital photography, imaging, and editing. Course will focus on capturing high quality images to use in professional design work. Studio Fee required.

    • ARTS3240Eco Art & Ceramics
      ARTS3240 Eco Art & Ceramics - 3 s.h.

      Contemporary and traditional approaches to clay with emphasis on wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. Exploration of sustainable production practices will also address surface decoration and responsible firing processes. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    • ARTS3280Sculpture and New Genres
      ARTS3280 Sculpture and New Genres - 3 s.h.

      In this course students explore basic methods of creating physical objects. Develops the integration of sculptural concept and practice, and the critical analysis of completed sculpture through a series of projects that investigate sculptural processes and issues. Lectures on directions in sculpture, technical demonstrations, and group critiques are scheduled. Studio fee required.

    • ARTS3840Interdisciplinary Studio
      ARTS3840 Interdisciplinary Studio - 3 s.h.

      Focuses on generating interdisciplinary theories, practices and works within a studio-based format. The course allows for collaborative learning opportunities for students working in different disciplines to approach themes and develop personal bodies of work. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Any lower-level studio art course.

    • ARTS3900Topics in Art
      ARTS3900 Topics in Art - 1-3 s.h.

      Study of topics in studio art or commercial design. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Content and semester hours will vary. Additional studio fee may be required. Prerequisites may apply.

    ARTS1220Surface, Space, and Time ARTS3220Photography ARTS3240Eco Art & Ceramics ARTS3280Sculpture and New Genres ARTS3840Interdisciplinary Studio ARTS3900Topics in Art
    Course Descriptions
    ARTS1220 Surface, Space, and Time - 3 s.h.

    Introduction to surface, space, and time as an artistic medium. Lectures, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on projects help students identify and understand surface, space, and time-based principles in art and design. Emphasis will be places on three-dimensional and four-dimensional narrative and visual storytelling practices.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS3220 Photography - 3 s.h.

    An exploration into visual story telling through digital photography, imaging, and editing. Course will focus on capturing high quality images to use in professional design work. Studio Fee required.

    ARTS3240 Eco Art & Ceramics - 3 s.h.

    Contemporary and traditional approaches to clay with emphasis on wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. Exploration of sustainable production practices will also address surface decoration and responsible firing processes. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    ARTS3280 Sculpture and New Genres - 3 s.h.

    In this course students explore basic methods of creating physical objects. Develops the integration of sculptural concept and practice, and the critical analysis of completed sculpture through a series of projects that investigate sculptural processes and issues. Lectures on directions in sculpture, technical demonstrations, and group critiques are scheduled. Studio fee required.

    ARTS3840 Interdisciplinary Studio - 3 s.h.

    Focuses on generating interdisciplinary theories, practices and works within a studio-based format. The course allows for collaborative learning opportunities for students working in different disciplines to approach themes and develop personal bodies of work. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Any lower-level studio art course.

    ARTS3900 Topics in Art - 1-3 s.h.

    Study of topics in studio art or commercial design. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Content and semester hours will vary. Additional studio fee may be required. Prerequisites may apply.

  • Studio Art Minor

    In addition to the essential education requirements, minors in Studio Art must complete 18 semester hours as prescribed below:

    Courses Offered
    • ARTS1210Making and Meaning
      ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

      Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS1220Surface, Space, and Time
      ARTS1220 Surface, Space, and Time - 3 s.h.

      Introduction to surface, space, and time as an artistic medium. Lectures, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on projects help students identify and understand surface, space, and time-based principles in art and design. Emphasis will be places on three-dimensional and four-dimensional narrative and visual storytelling practices.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS1230Drawing
      ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

      This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    • ARTS2240Art for Social Change
      ARTS2240 Art for Social Change - 3 s.h.

      This course aims to create social and political change through collaboration with individuals, communities, and institutions through the creation of participatory art. This discipline often values process over final product and become lifelong pursuits. Some examples include artistic activism, community-based art, creative placemaking, cultural organizing, performance, participatory art, social engagement, and social sculpture. No prior art experience necessary.  ELO5 Arts - World Citizenship, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace

    • ARTS2250Painting
      ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

      This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    • ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics
      ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

      Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    • ARTS3200Printmaking
      ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

      This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS3240Eco Art & Ceramics
      ARTS3240 Eco Art & Ceramics - 3 s.h.

      Contemporary and traditional approaches to clay with emphasis on wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. Exploration of sustainable production practices will also address surface decoration and responsible firing processes. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    • ARTS3280Sculpture and New Genres
      ARTS3280 Sculpture and New Genres - 3 s.h.

      In this course students explore basic methods of creating physical objects. Develops the integration of sculptural concept and practice, and the critical analysis of completed sculpture through a series of projects that investigate sculptural processes and issues. Lectures on directions in sculpture, technical demonstrations, and group critiques are scheduled. Studio fee required.

    ARTS1210Making and Meaning ARTS1220Surface, Space, and Time ARTS1230Drawing ARTS2240Art for Social Change ARTS2250Painting ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics ARTS3200Printmaking ARTS3240Eco Art & Ceramics ARTS3280Sculpture and New Genres
    Course Descriptions
    ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

    Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS1220 Surface, Space, and Time - 3 s.h.

    Introduction to surface, space, and time as an artistic medium. Lectures, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on projects help students identify and understand surface, space, and time-based principles in art and design. Emphasis will be places on three-dimensional and four-dimensional narrative and visual storytelling practices.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

    This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    ARTS2240 Art for Social Change - 3 s.h.

    This course aims to create social and political change through collaboration with individuals, communities, and institutions through the creation of participatory art. This discipline often values process over final product and become lifelong pursuits. Some examples include artistic activism, community-based art, creative placemaking, cultural organizing, performance, participatory art, social engagement, and social sculpture. No prior art experience necessary.  ELO5 Arts - World Citizenship, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace

    ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

    This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

    Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

    This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS3240 Eco Art & Ceramics - 3 s.h.

    Contemporary and traditional approaches to clay with emphasis on wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. Exploration of sustainable production practices will also address surface decoration and responsible firing processes. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    ARTS3280 Sculpture and New Genres - 3 s.h.

    In this course students explore basic methods of creating physical objects. Develops the integration of sculptural concept and practice, and the critical analysis of completed sculpture through a series of projects that investigate sculptural processes and issues. Lectures on directions in sculpture, technical demonstrations, and group critiques are scheduled. Studio fee required.

  • Teacher Certification in Art
    1. FOR ART MAJORS WHO WANT A SECONDARY ENDORSEMENT (5-12): Students majoring in Art who desire Iowa Teacher Certification with an Art secondary endorsement must complete all requirements for the BA in Studio Art degree, the Secondary Education Program and ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School as the appropriate methods course.
    2. FOR ART MAJORS WHO WANT A COMBINATION ENDORSEMENT (K-8 AND 5-12): Students majoring in Art who desire Iowa Teacher Certification with an elementary and secondary Art endorsement must complete all requirements for the BA in Studio Art degree, the Combination Program with ARTS3300 Art for the Elementary School and ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School as the appropriate methods courses.
    3. FOR ART MAJORS WHO WANT AN ELEMENTARY ENDORSEMENT (K-8). Students majoring in Art who desire Iowa Teacher Certification with a K-8 Art endorsement must complete all requirements for the BA in Studio Art degree, the Secondary Education Program (5-12 grade level requirements), substituting ARTS3300 and EDUC4400 for ARTS4350 and EDUC4420, respectively.
    4. FOR NON-ART MAJORS WHO WANT A SECONDARY ART ENDORSEMENT (5-12). Non-art majors desiring a secondary Art endorsement (5-12) in Iowa must complete a major in a secondary teaching field, the Secondary Education Program with ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School as the appropriate methods course, and the following courses:
    Courses Offered
    • ARTS1210Making and Meaning
      ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

      Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS1220Surface, Space, and Time
      ARTS1220 Surface, Space, and Time - 3 s.h.

      Introduction to surface, space, and time as an artistic medium. Lectures, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on projects help students identify and understand surface, space, and time-based principles in art and design. Emphasis will be places on three-dimensional and four-dimensional narrative and visual storytelling practices.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS1230Drawing
      ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

      This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    • ARTS2250Painting
      ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

      This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    • ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics
      ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

      Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    • ARTS2900Topics in Art
      ARTS2900 Topics in Art - 1-3 s.h.

      Special topics in art. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Content and semester hours will vary. Prerequisites may apply. Additional fee required.

    • ARTS3110Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice
      ARTS3110 Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice - 3 s.h.

      Theme-based art history course that explores topics such as activism, empathy, justice, disability, mental illness, feminism, sexuality, queer art, social and civic engagement, labor, and race throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Equality, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    • ARTS3200Printmaking
      ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

      This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS3240Eco Art & Ceramics
      ARTS3240 Eco Art & Ceramics - 3 s.h.

      Contemporary and traditional approaches to clay with emphasis on wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. Exploration of sustainable production practices will also address surface decoration and responsible firing processes. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    • ARTS3280Sculpture and New Genres
      ARTS3280 Sculpture and New Genres - 3 s.h.

      In this course students explore basic methods of creating physical objects. Develops the integration of sculptural concept and practice, and the critical analysis of completed sculpture through a series of projects that investigate sculptural processes and issues. Lectures on directions in sculpture, technical demonstrations, and group critiques are scheduled. Studio fee required.

    • ARTS3300Art for the Elementary Schools
      ARTS3300 Art for the Elementary Schools - 3 s.h.

      Development of knowledge and skills to plan, organize, and facilitate meaningful art curricula for elementary art students, with attention to lesson preparation, child artistic development, material discovery and integration with other subjects. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program, junior standing. +This course is only offered every other year.

    • ARTS4350Art for the Secondary School
      ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School - 3 s.h.

      Development of knowledge and skills to plan, organize, and facilitate meaningful art curricula for secondary art students with attention to lesson preparation and material discovery. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program. +This course is only offered every other year.

    • EDUC4400Elementary Student Teaching (K-6)
      EDUC4400 Elementary Student Teaching (K-6) - 6-14 s.h.

      Elementary Education Majors complete 14 weeks of elementary student teaching in accordance with the policies in the Teacher Education Handbook. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: Senior standing, admittance into Teacher Education, and approval for student teaching. (Graded on a Pass/Fail basis.) * If a candidate with more than one teaching major completes 14 semester hours of student teaching for one major (or endorsements that require student teaching), an additional six semester hours of student teaching will meet the student teaching requirement for the asterisked second teaching major.

    ARTS1210Making and Meaning ARTS1220Surface, Space, and Time ARTS1230Drawing ARTS2250Painting ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics ARTS2900Topics in Art ARTS3110Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice ARTS3200Printmaking ARTS3240Eco Art & Ceramics ARTS3280Sculpture and New Genres ARTS3300Art for the Elementary Schools ARTS4350Art for the Secondary School EDUC4400Elementary Student Teaching (K-6)
    Course Descriptions
    ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

    Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS1220 Surface, Space, and Time - 3 s.h.

    Introduction to surface, space, and time as an artistic medium. Lectures, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on projects help students identify and understand surface, space, and time-based principles in art and design. Emphasis will be places on three-dimensional and four-dimensional narrative and visual storytelling practices.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

    This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

    This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

    Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    ARTS2900 Topics in Art - 1-3 s.h.

    Special topics in art. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Content and semester hours will vary. Prerequisites may apply. Additional fee required.

    ARTS3110 Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice - 3 s.h.

    Theme-based art history course that explores topics such as activism, empathy, justice, disability, mental illness, feminism, sexuality, queer art, social and civic engagement, labor, and race throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Equality, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

    This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS3240 Eco Art & Ceramics - 3 s.h.

    Contemporary and traditional approaches to clay with emphasis on wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. Exploration of sustainable production practices will also address surface decoration and responsible firing processes. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    ARTS3280 Sculpture and New Genres - 3 s.h.

    In this course students explore basic methods of creating physical objects. Develops the integration of sculptural concept and practice, and the critical analysis of completed sculpture through a series of projects that investigate sculptural processes and issues. Lectures on directions in sculpture, technical demonstrations, and group critiques are scheduled. Studio fee required.

    ARTS3300 Art for the Elementary Schools - 3 s.h.

    Development of knowledge and skills to plan, organize, and facilitate meaningful art curricula for elementary art students, with attention to lesson preparation, child artistic development, material discovery and integration with other subjects. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program, junior standing. +This course is only offered every other year.

    ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School - 3 s.h.

    Development of knowledge and skills to plan, organize, and facilitate meaningful art curricula for secondary art students with attention to lesson preparation and material discovery. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program. +This course is only offered every other year.

    EDUC4400 Elementary Student Teaching (K-6) - 6-14 s.h.

    Elementary Education Majors complete 14 weeks of elementary student teaching in accordance with the policies in the Teacher Education Handbook. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: Senior standing, admittance into Teacher Education, and approval for student teaching. (Graded on a Pass/Fail basis.) * If a candidate with more than one teaching major completes 14 semester hours of student teaching for one major (or endorsements that require student teaching), an additional six semester hours of student teaching will meet the student teaching requirement for the asterisked second teaching major.

Exceptional Faculty
Yubu Kazungu, MFA
Yubu Kazungu, MFA Assistant Professor of Graphic Design View Bio
Karen Gergely
Karen Gergely Associate Professor of Art, Art Department Coordinator View Bio
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Career Growth Ahead

Many studio art majors will go on to graduate school to continue their education and specialize in a field that prepares them well for a career in the corresponding industry. You may find yourself in the film industry, interior design industry, or even fashion. A Studio Art degree from Graceland University can help to prepare you for these careers: 

  • Artist 
  • Art director 
  • Animator
  • Commercial artist 
  • Muralist 
  • Graphic Designer
  • Fine artists
  • Gallery Manager
  • Fashion Designer
  • Multimedia artist/animator 

       …and many other exciting fields. 

Why Graceland's Visual Art Major and Minor?

Graceland’s small student-to-faculty ratio gives studio art majors personalized instruction and attention to their work. Students also work with renowned artists, who guest lecture and provide mentorship, giving them exposure to professional artists who are already excelling in the field.

Graceland’s liberal arts education provides a rich foundation for interdisciplinary creative exploration and social engagement with studies that prepare students to be critical thinkers and visual problem solvers. 

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Tuition & Aid

99% of students on the Lamoni campus receive financial aid.

As you consider college, you want a simple, easy-to-understand formula designed to ensure that the one-of-a-kind Graceland Experience is within reach for your family. Undergraduate tuition includes our unique Transformational Leadership major, and we offer generous financial aid and scholarships to all of our students, making Graceland as affordable, if not moreso, than most public universities.

Educational Cost Scholarships & Aid Net Price Calculator
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Questions?

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Graphic Design
Major, Minor