The visual arts are a significant and essential, but often ignored, or, even maligned, aspect part of our being. They influence our perceptions and our understanding of our place in the world. We all too often perceive our world in practical terms that are black and/or white. The arts offer us a chance to see that same world in a multitude of colors. The visual arts curriculum at Lee College stresses the fundamentals necessary for students to develop skills and understanding of aesthetic and design principles that will allow them to grow within a chosen medium or area of concentration. The program is offered for students who are simply interested in art or for those who are planning to pursue a B.A. or B.F.A degree. Lee College offers an Associate of Arts Degree in Visual Arts and an Associate of Arts in Visual Arts: Imaging. Course work has been outlined to be representative of those courses required during the first two years of study leading to a Visual Arts degree. Course work includes beginning and advanced work in a number of media including Drawing, Painting, Life Drawing, Sculpture, Ceramics, Design, Photography, and Digital Media (including Photoshop). Besides these courses, designed principally for majors, the visual arts department offers a number of courses (Art History I, II and Art Appreciation) that satisfy the Humanities/Fine Arts core requirement. Happily, the Architecture Program has recently merged with the Visual Arts Department, and both are part of the Visual and Performing Arts Division.

An important aspect of a visual arts education is access to a variety of visual arts experiences that expand the student’s awareness of their environment and affords them access to the larger artistic community. Our location near Houston provides the student with a unique opportunity to view art in a number of venues including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Menil Museum, the Crafts Museum and a selection of galleries and art spaces. At least once a semester students can count on a departmental trip to view art in one or more of those venues. In addition, there are numerous other cultural experiences of which the student can take advantage. There also is a small Gallery within the confines of the Art Department.

If you want to begin a visual arts education and then transfer to another school where you can finish a baccalaureate degree, or if you simply want an outlet for your creativity, Lee College provides a challenging, intimate, caring program at a very competitive price that is transferable to most visual arts programs, both in the state and across the country. Lee College seeks to create a friendly, nurturing atmosphere in which art students can develop their career potential, leadership qualities, intellects, talents and skills.

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If you need more information about the Visual Arts program at Lee College or have any questions about Art transfer courses, please contact us.