Art Education
Students of art have many choices when it comes to finding a course of study. Community art centers, small studios, apprenticeships and college art programs offer different styles and degrees of study. Though apprenticeships and studio study were once popular, serious students of art tend towards a college degree program.
Art schools offer degrees in a variety of subjects. Students choose from programs in Fine Art, Craft Design and Folk Art, Commercial Art, Art History, and Art Management.
Fine Art programs prepare students to become creative artists in the visual and performing arts. Courses on painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, theatre, and dance are usually offered by these programs. Students also take classes on theory, art history, creating portfolios, but fine arts programs focus on the creative practice of art.
Craft Design and Folk Art programs instruct students on the techniques and aesthetics of Arts and Crafts. Students take courses in the hand-crafting of furniture and decorative art as well as courses in the theory and ethics behind Craft and Folk Art.
Commercial Art programs prepare students to create visual communication for businesses and consumers. Graphic design and digital design skills are emphasized. Courses in computer-aided design (CAD), advertising, drawing, illustration, and web design are generally offered by Commercial Art programs.
Art History focuses on the development of art from its earliest examples to modern and contemporary art. Students study art in relation to historical and theoretical contexts. Research, analysis of art, and they study of specific cultures, themes, styles, and periods are emphasized in coursework.
Art Management programs focus on the practical matters of presenting and selling art. Organization, management, and business skills are the focus of coursework. Students learn public relation and financial skills in addition to arts law and art advocacy. Students of Art Management learn to apply their skills to the management of galleries, museums, and art studios.
Teaching Art
Many students of art hope to pursue a career in teaching. Art teachers generally major in both art and education. Students are usually required to earn certification in order to teach on an elementary or secondary level. Art education programs prepare students to clearly present works of art, art techniques, and art materials. Courses in basic art, art history, fundamentals of education, and educational psychology are often required.
A Career in Art Education
Graduates of art programs work in museums, galleries, art studios, community art centers, schools, and advertising agencies. Many artists are self-employed.