Painting

Area of Study

The painting program at ETSU is rooted in the notion that the practice of art-making is the most successful when there is a balance between form and content. To that end, painting courses emphasize technical fluency, problem-solving and experimentation in both traditional and alternative media. Investigation into contemporary theory and practices in painting is ongoing in the form of regular critiques and discussions. As students progress through the program, it becomes important that they develop their own voice.

At the introductory level, a variety of observation-based exercises are offered as a means of developing a deeper understanding of relational color, composition, and spatial dynamics of the picture plane. Other courses expand to include a variety of media such as oil, acrylic, watercolor, encaustic, collage, and alternative materials. Students have the freedom to work with a range of approaches from figuration and representation to non-objective and intuitive.

Throughout the painting program, the work of historical and contemporary artists is introduced and discussed. Students are encouraged to do ongoing visual research outside of their studio work, with a particular emphasis on artist's work with which they feel an affinity. Our students learn to actively inform themselves about what is happening in the world both within and outside of artistic spheres.

Competitive and invitational opportunities to exhibit work within the department, in the community, and region are offered regularly. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in as many of these as feasible. At the end of the program, students in the painting area are expected to complete and exhibit a related body of work as a capstone experience.

B.A. Studio Art

B.A. Studio Art Education Minor

B.F.A. Studio Art

Painting Checksheet

General Education Core

M.F.A. Studio Art

Minor in Art