Art

See the world through an artistic lens.

At Western Colorado University, the Art program emphasizes an academic approach to artistic training and focuses on building a strong foundation in design and drawing. Studio courses revolve around classical materials employed in a contemporary manner and grants you access to a faculty who are masters in traditional and cutting-edge artistic practices, technologies and industry-standard software.

Through diverse coursework, you’ll learn how visual arts shape various social and cultural contexts. You’ll also be offered the tools you need to explore critical contemporary issues through an artistic lens. If you want to practice your own artistic concepts, the courses in visual design, drawing and photography will provide a valuable outlet for creative expression.

Art Requirements

Major

Minor

A major is your primary field of study, focusing on a specific subject like biology or business. This differs from a degree, which is the overall qualification you earn (for example, a bachelor’s degree). Your major determines the specialized courses you will take in college. To complete your degree, a major must be paired with a minor.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

A minor complements your major by allowing you to explore a secondary field of interest. It requires fewer courses than a major, making it a flexible way to broaden your knowledge, diversify your skills, or pursue a personal passion alongside your primary area of study.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

The Western Colorado Foundation offers scholarships specifically for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

Explore Scholarships

General Western Scholarships

Western Colorado University offers merit—and need-based scholarships, recognizing achievement, financial need, and special talents.

Explore Scholarships

1

Top Skills

Archive Management
Collections Management
Effective Communication
Innovative and Creative Thinking
Problem Solving
Research

2

Career Pathways

Archivist
Art Director
Craft Artist
Curator
Fine Artist
Graphic Designer

Latest News

• 

  Western’s Art & Design Department Chair Chosen for Prestigious Fellowship

  Training humanities faculty for leadership GUNNISON, Colorado: Western Art & Design Department Chair and Professor Tina Butterfield was one of only eight people from across…

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• 

  Western Earns Accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission

  Recognition demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence Western Colorado University is excited to announce that the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) voted at its July 18…

  Read More
• 

  Pride Month, Tokenism, and Being Queer at Western

  A Testimony from Natalie Edwards Pride Month Origins The first declaration of Pride Month was made in 1999 when President Clinton named June Gay and…

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Faculty & Staff

Tina Butterfield, MFA

Professor of Art; Art & Design Department Chair

Mayela Cardenas, MFA

Professor of Art

S. Chase Hutchison, MFA

Professor of Art

Anders Johnson, MFA

Associate Professor of Art

Emily Loehle, MFA

Lecturer in Art

Cierra Rohrbaugh, MFA

Instructor of Art

Art & Design Department

Department Chairperson

• Tina Butterfield

• Professor of Art; Art & Design Department Chair

Contact Information

970.943.3093

970.943.2329

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Quigley Hall 202
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231