Fine Arts Department

The Fine Arts program offers a major and minor providing an undergraduate formation in both art history and studio practice within the context of a liberal arts education. The degree earned is a liberal arts degree, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), a more versatile diploma, not a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.). Students obtain a foundation for possible careers in teaching, the practice of art, museum curatorship, arts administration or art librarianship, among others. An honours degree with a concentration in either studio art or art history is an option for students with superior academic records wishing to complete additional Fine Arts credits. An honours degree is recommended for those students wishing to apply to programs of graduate study.

Offerings in art history include the survey of Western art, and courses in depth on periods in European art from the Renaissance through the 20th century as well as courses in Canadian art. Students ' conceptual horizons in studying art history are developed through courses on the theory and criticism of art, the methods and concepts of art history, and feminist approaches to the discipline. Attention to art in its institutional context is a common thread in art historical instruction at Bishop's.

Why study Fine Arts at Bishop’s?

Studio work at Bishop's normally begins with the entry level courses, introductions to practice in two- and three-dimensional media, combined with the application of critical concepts to visual experience and art-making. Students may take courses in drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography. Each of these areas is taught by an instructor who is a dedicated teacher and active practitioner in his or her field. Expanded purpose built studio facilities in the Fine Arts Building provide adequate space for medium size classes offering individual attention to students ' work and a group atmosphere that is congenial and supportive. Regarding entrance to all studio courses, priority is given to Fine Arts students.