» Department of Fine and Performing Arts
We strive to cultivate a space that encourages individual and collaborative learning and creative production.
The Department of Fine & Performing Arts aims to provide art students with the skills needed to build the foundation for future careers in art education, graphic design and studio art. Our students receive a rigorous education that includes studio, graphic and digital arts, art history and contemporary criticism. Through studio, classroom, and experience-based learning, our caring faculty prepares students for careers that will challenge and inspire them.
*Art Studio emphases include: Ceramics, Drawing, Painting, Photography, Printmaking and Sculpture
“One of my favorite parts was seeing the joy light up on people’s faces, especially the artists when they saw their work on display. It was lovely to see people gather around art and dive into discussions.”
Anaya Walker
Graphic design major
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.
Students have opportunities to create commission-based work where clients contact the Department 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 experience a realistic, agency-like atmosphere as they work in teams on a promotional campaign plan for an actual client. The competing teams conduct research, analyze data, devise strategies, formulate tactics, and present their plans to the client.
The Clay Club is a student organization for ceramics students who are intermediate and advanced level students. It also allows ceramics students to sell their works to offset tuition and/or art materials costs.
