Description

The task of the visual arts is to bond creativity, experience and problem solving. At BSC, students learn how to create art that communicates ideas, thoughts, and emotions. Through study of design elements and principles, students develop understanding of the visual language needed to analyze art and to apply aesthetic knowledge in a cultural context. Non-majors may benefit from visual art courses as self-enrichment. Several classes are structured so students can have continual enrollment as their skills develop.

BSC’s program has a three-fold mission:

• Provide core curriculum for students planning to transfer to a four-year college or use art as a profession and livelihood
• Provide an environment for students to enjoy art and to develop skills through participation in local, state, and national art activities and exhibitions
• Encourage students to make artistic contributions to their community

Study is offered in three broad categories:

• Two-dimensional – Painting, drawing, printmaking and two-dimensional design
• Three-dimensional – Ceramics, sculpture, and three-dimensional design
• History – Introduction to the visual arts and art history

Preparation

Potential students should possess the creative desire to express themselves visually and to understand how art and/or a specific art medium tie(s) into their interest area. Some previous experience in design, drawing or an art medium is helpful.

Requirements

Students who complete the requirements of the suggested curriculum earn an Associate in Arts degree and may transfer as an art major to a four-year institution. Each student is required to prepare a portfolio of his or her best work for presentation to potential employers.

Bismarck State College has many cooperative, articulation, or transfer agreements with postsecondary institutions both inside and outside of the North Dakota University System. Some of these agreements are established to allow students to remain on campus as they complete their bachelor’s degree. In all cases, students seeking to transfer after completing a degree at BSC should consult the academic catalog of their destination college and work with their academic advisor to plan for this transition.

Career Opportunities

Many artists and related workers are self-employed. With a wide variety of options, artists may choose to work in advertising and related services, publishing, specialized design services, computer system design, the motion picture and video industry, and more. Competition is keen for both salaried jobs and freelance work.

Career possibilities: Studio Artist, Art Historian, Teacher, Art Critic, Art Agent, Illustrator, Medical and Scientific Illustrator, Cartoonist, Curator, Art Therapist, Art Director, Set Director, Set Designer, Gallery Director, Jewelry Designer, Fashion Designer, Industrial Designer, Interior Designer, Computer Artist, Graphic artist, Commercial Artist, Animator, Retail Display Designer.

Additional Information

The Visual Art program reserves the right to retain, exhibit, and reproduce any piece of art submitted for course credit.