Department
Why Study Art & Design at Samford?
Fostering a unique intersection of faith, artistic expression, and community service within the academic framework
The Department of Art & Design at Samford University and the Samford University Art Gallery are dedicated to fostering a unique intersection of faith, artistic expression, and community service within the academic framework. This approach creates an academic journey that is both scholarly and transformative, guided by Christian principles while breaking free from traditional paradigms of art education and aesthetic contemplation.
The Department of Art & Design’s mission is to maintain a Christ-centered community preparing artists and designers to become professionals in their field who engage society and contribute to culture through creative production, critical thinking, and authentic service.
Fostering Transformative Experiences
Our academic programs are designed to be transformative, pushing students beyond their comfort zones and encouraging them to take risks, experiment, and evolve as artists and individuals. We believe that personal growth is an integral part of artistic development.
Community Engagement and Service
We are deeply committed to engaging with our local and global communities through art. Our students and faculty actively participate in service projects and initiatives that use art as a means to foster positive change, promote social justice, and enhance the quality of life for others. Many of our students do internships nationally and internationally.
Exploring the Intersection of Faith and Art
We believe that faith and artistic expression are not mutually exclusive. Our academic environment encourages students to explore the spiritual dimensions of art, to seek inspiration from their faith, and to engage in conversations that bridge the gap between art and spirituality.
Art as a Catalyst for Social Change
We view art as a powerful catalyst for positive social change. Through creative expression and community engagement, we aspire to address pressing social issues and contribute to a more just and equitable society.
Cultivating Lifelong Learning
We are committed to instilling a love for lifelong learning in our students, encouraging them to continuously evolve as artists and scholars throughout their lives.
Pursue Your Calling. Prepare for a Fulfilling Career.
We prepare collaborative artists who are visionary leaders and critical thinkers.
Scholarship
We offer four degrees in Art and Design:
- Game Design, BS
Learn the technical and creative aspects of designing interactive games and creating 3D modeling in this Bachelor of Science program. - Graphic Design, BFA
Develop your visual communication skills and artistic creativity with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree focused on graphic design. - Studio Art, BA
Explore diverse artistic techniques with a broad Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art. - Studio Art, BFA
Hone your artistic voice through intensive studio work with a specialized Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art.
All of these programs start with the fundamentals of art.
Key Benefits
- Faculty who are accomplished teaching artists.
- Real-world experience through internships and employment opportunities in the Birmingham business community while at Samford.
- Exhibition of work on and off campus.
- Outreach with area schools, mission programs and churches.
- Creative workspaces including an on-site Art Gallery and the Art Lofts.
- Abroad experiences to explore Arts in Society.
Facilities
Explore the Art Lofts, a departmental space offering studio art and foundational classrooms. With workshop areas, faculty offices, and senior studio spaces, the Art Lofts create a comfortable setting for artistic pursuits.
Continue your exploration to the third floor of Dwight Beeson Hall (DBH), exclusively dedicated to studios and classrooms. Discover graphic design and game design studios, design senior studios, and faculty offices, providing resources for your creative projects.
Notably, our department hosts an Art Gallery in Bonnie Bolding Swearingen Hall (BBS), offering a professional platform to showcase various artistic expressions.
Hallmarks of Art and Design at Samford
High Standards and Hard Work
Students learn the fundamentals of art, art history and techniques while honing their creative focus leading to personal and professional success.
Art with Purpose
Locally and afar, our students are serving the community to leave the world a better place.
Faith
Samford students pursue their faith as well as their artistic talents.
