RISD vs. Oberlin, Wesleyan, Bates, Bard, Vanderbilt, UofM

<p>Hello,</p>

<p>I'm a musician looking into a double major or minor in studio arts.
I am applying to Oberlin, Wesleyan University, Bates, Bard, maybe Vanderbilt, and University of Michigan.</p>

<p>My brother is a senior at RISD. I think I have high standards for the arts considering I am primarily a musician.</p>

<p>Could you offer a review of the art departments at these schools?</p>

<p>I have not found any liberal art schools with studio arts departments that really impress me.
Comments about the schools listed or suggestions for other liberal arts schools with strong studio arts is appreciated.</p>

<p>I lean more towards design rather than fine arts, but I have some interest in both.</p>

<p>Small liberal arts colleges tend to lean toward fine arts, not design, though you will find some exceptions each semester on a case by case basis.</p>

<p>I’d suggest Williams: excellent studio and art history, great facilities, instructors who are working artists, focus on process, access to world class museums. Williams also has an excellent music department with lots of performance opportunities even for non majors</p>

<p>I can only speak to Williams but I believe the same could be said about Wesleyan. </p>

<p>Some others that my son liked for studio art (and art history) Hamilton, Conn College, Skidmore, Kenyon. I would also add Vassar. Smith if you are female.</p>

<p>completely different experiences. do you want to get a diverse education and study art, or do you want to study and prepare for a career in art? </p>