What's the art major like at UCSC?

I'm currently a high school junior and I've been looking at UCSC as a possible college choice because I've heard they have a decent art program. Can anyone tell me more about their art major, like the classes offered, quality of instruction, and opportunities for creating and showcasing art on campus?

UC Santa Cruz (UCSC) has a well-regarded Art Department that offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art. The program is designed to help students develop a strong foundation in various art practices, theory, and history. UCSC's art major is suited for students looking to explore and experiment with different disciplines while receiving comprehensive art education.

The curriculum covers various areas of study, including drawing, painting, print media, sculpture, photography, intermedia, and electronic arts. You'll begin with foundation courses that emphasize fundamental skills like drawing and visual thinking. From there, you can advance to more specialized upper-division courses tailored to your interests. Some unique course offerings at UCSC include Interactive Narrative, Time-Based Media, and Transcoding for Multimedia Art.

Faculty members at UCSC are practicing artists who bring their industry experience and creative passion to their instruction. They typically have small class sizes, allowing for one-on-one interaction and personalized guidance to help students develop their artistic vision and technical skills. Professors often host workshops, critiques, and individual studio visits to provide further opportunities for feedback and artistic growth.

There are several spaces on campus for students to work on their art, such as the Eduardo Carrillo Senior Gallery and the Digital Arts Research Center (DARC). Additionally, UCSC hosts several exhibitions and events throughout the year for students to showcase their work, like the annual Irwin Scholarship show, which recognizes the achievements of selected outstanding art students.

Furthermore, being in close proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area provides UCSC art majors access to a thriving art scene, including galleries, museums, and a network of professionals in the field. This opens up possibilities for internships, off-campus exhibitions, and collaborations with other artists.

Overall, the Art major at UCSC offers a well-rounded curriculum, experienced faculty, and resources tailored to students' interests, enabling them to create a unique artistic experience and prepare them for a career in the arts.