Art and Design Department

Professor Theisen, co-Chair

Assistant Professor Tyson, Co-Chair
Assistant Professor Rowan

The Art and Design Department at Belhaven University seeks to foster a creative community of makers that is holistic and multidisciplinary to meet the realities of the connected economy. A creative community is one that nurtures productivity and scholarly research among all its participants. It is engaged in learning that is self-directed and hands-on guided by faculty that provide skill-training and thoughtful critique. We believe that artists and designers are crucial in shaping the culture through the application of knowledge, leadership, creative thought, innovation, and a Biblical Worldview.

It is our goal to help students develop the creative vision, aesthetic insight, technical skill, intellectual rigor, spiritual discernment, and work ethic necessary for the practice of visual creation from a Christian worldview. In short, the department is determined to establish students as emerging peers. The department also seeks to provide the campus and local community with opportunities to encounter and engage with works of visual art and graphic design and their creators. Art and Design majors gain professional experience through participation in public exhibitions, including the senior show, as well as opportunities for internships.

The Art and Design Department offers a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Fine Arts, and a minor in both Graphic Design and Visual Art, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Art (Traditional/Digital Studies). Art and Design majors (freshman and transfer) enter as BA candidates and are admitted to BFA standing upon successful completion of foundation courses with the permission of the faculty.

Visual arts majors are required to attend and participate in scheduled departmental meetings. Visual arts majors are responsible to read and abide by all departmental policies as described in the Art & Design Handbook .