Fine Arts – Visual Arts Major | Francis Marion University

Visual Arts

FRANCIS MARION UNIVERSITY offers a B.A. degree in Visual Arts in a program accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art & Design. Minors are offered in Art History as well as Visual Arts.

THE VISUAL ARTS PROGRAM focuses on developing the artistic abilities of students within the liberal arts tradition. Students majoring in Visual Arts select an area of specialization within the studio arts:

painting
ceramics
photography
graphic design

After learning the concepts and skills underlying all the visual arts, the students spend several semesters learning the more advanced concepts and techniques of their chosen area of specialization.

The purpose of the art major is to give students a solid foundation in the studio arts and to develop visual awareness. The actual production of works in the studios, followed by critiques of their works, enhances the students’ understanding. They are prepared for graduate school or for independent work in the arts through their coursework in the studio areas, supplemented by art history and related fields of study. Graduates of this program have gone on to graduate studies and jobs in art related careers.

Check with Department for most current Visual Arts and Art Education Program Handbook

The Visual Arts Curriculum

A well-rounded education that prepares students to succeed in the modern world is at the heart of the traditional liberal arts education. Therefore, students in this program are required to successfully complete 59 hours of General Education Requirements. In addition to this foundation, the art major must successfully complete 12 hours of art history, 9 hours of basic studio courses, and 15 hours in drawing, design and technology courses. After selecting an area of specialization, the student will complete an additional 12 hours of more advanced work in the studios, 18 hours of work in a minor area, and conclude with a 1 hour senior seminar and the presentation of a senior exhibition as part of the requirements for graduation.

Visual Arts Facilities

Francis Marion offers a variety of state-of-the-art facilities for Visual Arts students, including a photography studio, spacious, high-ceilinged painting studios, professional graphic design labs, and art galleries. Learn more about FMU’s Visual Arts Facilities.

Beyond the Classroom

The Galleries Curator schedules the Art Gallery Series, exhibitions by students and distinguished regional artists with shows changing throughout the academic year.

Visiting artists often give gallery lectures or master classes to interested students and members of the FMU community.

Faculty lead student art history tours to visit major museums and galleries including Atlanta, Baltimore, Washington, New York, Boston, London and Ecuador. There is no substitute for actually standing in the presence of historically significant art and architecture.

Students have participated in community enhancement by painting murals and taking part in arts festivals.

Visual Arts Alumni have gone on to successful graduate study and careers as