Visual Arts
Examine art through contemporary and historical perspectives.
With classes like drawing, painting, jewelry, printmaking, digital photography, fiber art, mixed media, and a range of special topics courses, you can develop your skills and examine art through contemporary and historical perspectives. You may also take courses at the Maryland Institute and College of Arts (MICA) and other colleges in the Baltimore area. Our Center for the Visual Arts hosts different exhibits, conversations with visiting artists, and connects you with study abroad programs so you can be exposed to art of all forms and cultures.
CLASSES YOU MIGHT TAKE
Sculptural Fibers
The fabric of the universe, a wrinkle in time and space—our physical universe is frequently described through fiber metaphors. Fiber processes are algorithmic. They grow exponentially, they fold, they tear, they wrinkle. These processes function as a pliable plane that can be bent, stretched, and turned inside out. This course offers students an opportunity to explore fiber processes through this sculptural lens. Topics include knitting, crochet, basketry, and lace as they come together to form sculptural armatures and objects. Together we will explore the physical properties of fiber and textiles and how they take up space and function in our world.
Artist Books: Draft, Print, Stitch
In this studio art class, you’ll create three artist books taught by three different faculty members. First, you’ll investigate the book as a technological and cultural artifact, exploring historically what the book is and does, and as a cognitive aid and engine for ideation. The second section will use printmaking techniques combined with quick and ephemeral folding structures to understand both printmaking and bookmaking’s rich history in dissemination of ideas, democracy, and social change. The third section will explore embroidery and weaving to navigate language and mark making.
Oil Painting
This course is designed as an introduction to the tools, techniques, and concepts of basic painting for the serious student. Studio assignments focus on developing strong observation and rendering skills focusing on issues of light, color, and composition while experimenting with traditional and contemporary practices in painting. Lectures and a museum trip give students an art historical context in which they place their own discoveries as beginning painters. Oil paint will be used. No previous experience is necessary.
Faculty Spotlight
Join the Club
Hopkins students are eager to pursue their interests outside the classroom. With 450+ student-led organizations, here are just a few you could join:
