Our
department's curriculum offers a balance between well-rounded
liberal arts education and specific skills to begin careers
or enter professions. Four fundamental concerns must be
covered: studio skills, design abilities, applicable theory,
and technical information. Our traditional art-school foundation
year explores basic art and design concepts, technical skills,
and strengthens creativity and self-discipline. Students
declare their majors at the end of the freshman year; however,
we highly encourage incoming freshman interested in the
visual arts to enroll in at least two, preferable three-core
skill courses (Art 190 2-D Design, Art 191 3-D Design, Art
110 Drawing Intro). All of Barton's graduating studio majors
are required to take a junior portfolio class, Art 305 and
a senior capstone class, Art 403. Students explore options
for entry into the profession or to pursue advanced study.
Preparation of their exit portfolios may involve the refining
of prior works and the production of additional or new works.
The course also covers the skills necessary for professional
presentation. All studio students must participate in the
exit exhibition, which is the physical product of the capstone.
The comprehensive exhibit of their best work is displayed
for the College community. They also prepare portfolios
that showcase their cumulative skills. Business aspects
of the profession are also covered.
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