Program(s) Available: B.F.A.
The art studio major provides students with the skills needed to accomplish the tasks of their professions and to awaken them to that intellectual level of existence which will cause them to lead fuller, more rewarding lives regardless of the professional area they enter.
Studying in these programs offers students the opportunity to learn to communicate ideas effectively, develop analytical skills, synthesize ideas, evaluate the implications of present actions against historical perspectives, and develop discriminating aesthetic judgments.
The Discipline of Art has among its quality objectives: (a) to provide an environment conducive to learning and creative production, (b) to develop an understanding and sensitivity to the visual arts of the past and present, (c) to prepare students for careers in the visual arts and design including the teaching of art and design, (d) to furnish the students with sufficient mastery of technical skills to allow for future independent development and creative production, and (e) to prepare students for advanced study in the visual arts.
In addition to the academic programs, the Exhibitions Program and Visiting Artists Series assist in broadening the learning experiences of all students. The exhibitions are shown in the Gallery of the Olive DeLuce Fine Arts Building and are drawn from national as well as regional sources. The Visiting Artists Series brings outstanding artists and art historians to the school, where they conduct workshops, give demonstrations, hold discussions, and give slide presentations and lectures that are open to all persons in the University and regional community.
Northwest art facilities include:
Ceramics students gain a thorough understanding of materials and processes, develop rigorous studio practice, and are trained in the verbal, visual, and tactile language of sculptural and functional ceramics, backed by robust art history courses. Ceramics students develop their own clay and glazes from earth materials and fire kilns of all kinds. This training is offset with projects that emphasize material exploration, conceptual development and multimedia discovery.
Art majors with an emphasis in drawing focus on observational skills. Students are trained to find their own voice and visual language and focus on shifts from observational skills to the conceptual aspect of making art. Faculty ensure students have skills in manipulating various drawing media with graphite, charcoal, ink, watercolor and mixed media (dry and wet products); acquiring a sense of proportion, rhythm, balance and weight to learn the methods of analyzing shapes and proportions of perspective drawing; and creating the three-dimensional illusions on a two-dimensional surface.
“Using the resources Northwest provided me in the drawing program, I was able to build a skilled formal and conceptual understanding critical to my research and creative practice.”
— Sammy Ward
Art majors with an emphasis in painting learn techniques in acrylic and oil paint, and mixed media and develop skills in color manipulation and harmonization. Classes are divided between painting in the studio, formal analysis of artwork and discussion of painting concepts. Faculty guide students to develop as visual artists and prepare them for a successful.
Art majors with an emphasis in photography gain mastery in all areas of digital photography, including DSLR camera controls, lighting, printing and editing software. In addition, students develop a conceptual body of work with an emphasis on creative expression.
“My experience in the photography program has pushed me to become a better artist. The photography program is welcoming to all and allows every student to pursue their interest in the photo world.”
— Riley Kious
Art majors with an emphasis in printmaking master traditional and contemporary techniques in many areas of printmaking, such as screen printing, intaglio, relief and digital processes.
“I use printmaking because I can feel what I’m creating. It’s not about seeing everything; it’s about imagination and the creative process.”
— Alice Moring
In Sculpture, you will master timeless techniques and command cutting-edge technology. Our program uniquely blends historical practices like metal casting and woodworking with modern tools like 3D printing and digital fabrication. You will have access to dedicated metal, welding, and woodshops, alongside a state-of-the-art digital lab. Here, you will forge a distinct artistic practice, building a professional portfolio that is uniquely yours.
Thu, April 9, 2026
(secondary education / art education)
School of Fine and Performing Arts
660.562.1326
fparts@nwmissouri.edu
“Sculpture inspires me because it transforms my ideas into tangible forms, letting my imagination exist in real space.”
Jordan Nance
Art: Studio major with emphasis in Sculpture
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Students have opportunities to create commission-based work where clients contact the School of Fine and Performing Arts to request a drawing. The professor selects a student to create and complete the project.
Advanced painting students are guaranteed their own studio space at Northwest. This provides students an opportunity to function like professional artists before graduating.
Students gain experience showcasing and selling their art at the Northwest Art Show.
Students are encouraged to submit their best work for presentation at the annual Celebration of Scholars, an interdisciplinary symposium spotlighting exceptional student work throughout campus.
The Fire Arts Building is dedicated to the Ceramics and Sculpture programs that require “fire and fume.” Students can utilize this building to create unique and exquisite works of art. The building is equipped with various sophisticated safety, fire prevention and ventilation systems, so students are also safe.
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