Why Art?

“The learned understand the theory of art, the unlearned its pleasure." (Quintilian, De Institutione Oratoria, AD c. 35-100)

"Art is a human activity, consisting in this, that one man consciously, by means of certain external signs, hands on to others feelings he has lived through, and that other people are infected by these feelings, and also experience them." (Leo Tolstoy, What is Art?)

Truths, Myths and Expectations

Art is a path for students with a passion for the visual. There are also practical applications for the skills and knowledge acquired in the process. The intrinsic values of an education in art usually attract the student practitioner. Examples from the past of art and artists, basic skills appropriate to the disciplines and media, the ability to articulate ideas and inspirations visually and verbally, an awareness of the contemporary milieu with its heterodox issues and debates, and a culminating experience that confirms and reaffirms your progress and experiences as you move towards the degree are aspects of your courses in the department. In our traditional fine arts program you will be asked to explore the various art media at the lower division level: fundamentals courses, drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography and a survey of the history and contextual weave of art making through time, seasoned with exposure to art from cultures outside the western mainstream. (See degree requirements in the current university catalogue). After the first two years of exploring different media and histories of art you will begin to chart a more focused course. Your last four semesters will provide the depth of study and experience you will need to begin to formulate your direction after graduation. The basic skills acquired in the courses that you work out in consultation with your advisor here will provide you with the means necessary for graduate study, entry into a teaching credential program, or professional careers within the arts.

Advising PDF

BA in Studio Art 2D Emphasis
BA in Studio Art 3D Emphasis
BA in Studio Studio Art Photo/Media Emphasis

Resources

Nicole Stein is the Professional Academic Advisor for lower-division and GE advising for the School of Arts & Humanities. Nicole offers remote appointments via Zoom or telephone. To schedule an appointment, please use LoboConnect. You may also contact the Advising & Transfer Center front-desk at 707-664-2730 or ssuadvisingcenter@sonoma.edu (links send e-mail)

Disability Statement

The art department is committed to access for all students. If you have a disability that requires accommodation in this class, you must notify the instructor before the end of the second week of class regarding the nature of the accommodation(s) you require. You must register with the campus office of Disabled Student Services, located in Schulz 1014a, phone (707) 664-2677; TDD (707) 664-2958.

DSS will provide you with written confirmation of your disability and authorize recommended accommodations. This authorization must be presented to the instructor before any accommodations can be made.