<p>I'm wondering if anyone out there can opine on studio art programs at LACs. S2 is interested in art, but at this time isn't so certain about it that he wants to attend or even look at a pure art and design school. (He also wants to play DIII sports, which wouldn't be an option at most art schools). </p>
<p>Right now on the radar are a number of LACs, including (from the reaches to the matches) Grinnell, Colorado College, Whitman, St Olaf, Lawrence University, Lewis and Clark, Willamette, Kalamazoo, and Beloit. Also, possibly, Bates, Colby, and Conn College.</p>
<p>Any of these good for art and design? Should any be crossed off the list? I know next to nothing about art and art departments so any input is appreciated!</p>
<p>My son majored in art studio and art history at Williams and was pleased with the programs. Williams is also very strong in Division III sports. It’s very selective, but they like the artist/athlete profile. If he can compete on a varsity level, he should contact the coaches early on.</p>
<p>Other LACs that I would recommend for studio art are: Wesleyan, Skidmore, Conn College, Kenyon, Vassar. These vary in selectivity, but at some males get an extra admissions boost.</p>
<p>Art departments at LACs (and many universities) lean more toward fine art – painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, print making – with less focus on design and new media.</p>
<p>Your son knows about submitting an art supplement with his application, right?</p>
<p>I can only comment on St Olaf but I was very impressed with their Fine Arts program. Our campus visit coincided with a student art showing in their gallery and I was very impressed with their work.</p>
<p>Colorado College seems to have good programs in art history and studio. I’m most familiar with their courses in architectural history and design, which according to my S (a 2nd year student there) are interesting and well-taught. Even though it has no architecture major, per se, graduates apparently have a good track record for getting into strong M.Arch. programs.</p>
<p>The school has a new center for studio and performing arts (the first effort in a major campus building project). The one-course-at-a-time block plan is well suited to an art major because it allows you to throw yourself into a project without having to watch the clock. Every course gets its own dedicated classroom, studio or lab, available 24/7, for the duration of a block. </p>
<p>Students tend to be athletic and outdoorsy. D1 men’s hockey is the big spectator sport. Rock climbing, cycling, and winter sports get lots of participation (what with the sunny climate and the Rocky Mountain backdrop).</p>