2016-2017 Pitzer Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2016-2017 Pitzer Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Studio Art Major


In studio art, the relation of the artist-teacher to the students precludes the possibility of overly specific course descriptions, other than general indications of media and level of advancement. However, it is important to note that entry-level courses assume no prior knowledge. First-year students are encouraged to enroll in these classes. Lower division studio art courses focus on the development of individual ideas in the context of class assignments. Additionally, but no less important is acquiring an understanding of tools, materials and techniques for the successful manifestations of those ideas. The artist-teacher presents material from her/his experience, convictions, technical knowledge and aesthetic sensibilities in the order and at the rate which, in her/his judgment will best related to the needs of the class and the individual student. Classroom activities are placed in the context of an historical perspective. Ample opportunity for dialogue among the students and artist-teacher is encouraged. The advanced studio course offerings have prerequisites and as such, are oriented toward more complex problem-solving and projects, both for the individual and for the group.

Requirements for the Major:

A major in studio art requires the successful completion of 12 courses.

Seven (7) Studio Art Courses working towards competence in three different media, with excellence in one.

Three (3) Art History courses, including one (1) in contemporary art or art theory. ART 189 PZ -Art Innovation and Exhibition and ART 199 PZ -Senior Projects in Art.

In the last semester of the senior year, studio art majors are required to mount an exhibition of their work as a part of the course ART 199 PZ -Senior Projects in Art. This involves the creation of a body of work that has a cohesive rationale, which will be discussed/critiqued with the entire Art Faculty and graduating peer group.

Studio Art Majors who intend to pursue graduate studies are encouraged to take at least 4 Art History courses as well as to apply for internships in museums, galleries, and conservation labs, and to study abroad.

Requirements for the Major


Art history majors will take two introductory art history courses, six additional art history courses, one studio art course, the senior seminar, and the senior thesis, for a total of 11 required courses.

Two introductory courses: ARHI 051A PO  or ARHI 051B PO , and ARHI 051C PO .
One course in the art of Asia, Africa, or the African Diaspora.
One course in the art of the Americas.
One course in the art of Europe before 1840.
One course in art since 1840.
Two additional art history courses.
One studio art course.
Senior Seminar in the fall semester (ARHI 190 PO ).
Senior Thesis in the spring semester (ARHI 191 PZ ).

Majors who intend to pursue graduate studies should study at least two foreign languages appropriate to their areas of interest. Students are strongly encouraged to apply for internships in museums, galleries, and conservation labs, and to study abroad during their junior year.

Learning Outcomes for the Art History Major:


Pitzer Art History majors will

  • Gain knowledge of the theories, histories, and philosophies of art
  • Gain an understanding of art objects and traditions in their historical contexts and across cultures
  • Learn how to communicate effectively about art works in both written and oral forms
  • Learn how to conduct research in art history
  • Attain the skills and knowledge to pursue a productive career or further education in art history, or a related field