BA in Visual Arts - Studio in Chicago United States | University of Chicago

The Department of Visual Arts (DoVA) focuses on artistic creation as a means to investigate creativity, self-expression, visual perception, and our built environment. Students enrolling in ARTV courses—whether fulfilling general education requirements or pursuing a visual arts major—will cultivate communication, analytical, and creative abilities through hands-on art production. The BA program caters to those passionate about both creating and studying art. DoVA's faculty comprises practicing artists and humanities scholars dedicated to artistic practice and theory. Visual arts majors follow customized curricula blending studio work, lectures, and seminars, potentially incorporating courses beyond the Humanities Division. The program emphasizes multifaceted art appreciation: examining the artist's creative process, visual techniques used, and audience interpretation. Beyond studio practice, this may involve studying art history, cultural context, critical theory, and philosophical aesthetics. Qualified majors can apply for the competitive studio track during their junior year, with faculty committee reviews determining admission before senior year. Studio track participants collaborate with the Director of Undergraduate Studies and faculty to prepare a thesis exhibition in their final spring quarter, with potential access to shared studio space depending on availability and demonstrated merit.