Studio Art

Studio Art at Yeshiva University offers a comprehensive and dynamic program designed to nurture creativity, technical skill, and critical thinking in aspiring artists. This interdisciplinary major provides students with a solid foundation in various artistic disciplines, including painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, and digital media, enabling them to develop their individual artistic voices while gaining a broad understanding of art history and contemporary practices. The curriculum emphasizes both studio practice and academic inquiry, encouraging students to explore the conceptual and contextual aspects of art within historical, cultural, and social frameworks. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty who are dedicated to mentorship and personalized artistic development. The program also fosters an active engagement with the wider arts community through exhibitions, internships, and collaborations, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the arts, education, and related fields. Emphasizing both technical mastery and innovative experimentation, the Studio Art program at Yeshiva University aims to cultivate versatile artists capable of contributing meaningfully to the cultural landscape. Graduates leave with a robust portfolio, critical skills, and the confidence to pursue advanced studies or professional endeavors in visual arts, design, art education, or alternative career paths that benefit from strong visual literacy and creative problem-solving skills. Whether students are interested in pursuing careers as professional artists, art educators, curators, or entrepreneurs, the program offers a supportive environment to develop their talents and realize their artistic potential.

• 2001 The Studio Experience 3 credits. Introduction to several different art media and approaches, for the beginning art student. Drawing, painting, and sculpture projects dealing with various degrees of realism and abstraction. For non-majors only. 
• 2201 Principles of Design 3 credits. Elements and principles of two-dimensional visual expression, such as line, space, color, and shape, with emphasis on compositional movement. Studio projects, weekly sketchbook assignments and written art reviews. Foundations level course to be taken early in the Studio Art sequence. 
• 2205 Color 3 credits. Introduction to the study of color and the role it plays in design and art. Fundamental concepts such as color interaction, expressive color, color physics, spectral color and surface color will be explored through a series of hands-on projects in a variety of media including acrylic painting.
• 2286 Watercolor 3 credits. Instruction in the practice of watercolor painting methods and materials with projects including still life, portrait, landscape and non-objective formats. Basic techniques covered include wash, wet into dry, wet into wet, masking, glazing and others. No prerequisite, but drawing and/or painting experience is helpful. 
• 2301 Principles of Drawing 3 credits. Introduction to basic drawing skills via study of the still life. Fundamental drawing concepts including: Perspective, effective use of line, mass and value are explored through diverse graphic media. Foundations level course to be taken early in the Studio Art sequence. 
• 2303 Intermediate Drawing 3 credits. Extension and application of basic skills acquired in ARTS 2301. Continued exploration of drawing as an expressive medium through traditional and non-traditional formats and a variety of media. Projects include still life, live model, portrait and drawing from imagination.Prerequisite: ARTS 2301 or equivalent. 
• 2304 Advanced Drawing 3 credits. Extension and application of skills acquired in ARTS 2303 or equivalent. Cultivation of drawing disciplines, encouragement of original thinking, and development of individual style. This course may be taken a second time for credit. Prerequisite: ARTS 2303 or equivalent. 
• 2306 Drawing on New York 3 credits. An offsite drawing course that uses such sites as Bryant Park, the East River, and alternative interior sites as subjects for drawings in a variety of media. Prerequisite: ARTS 2301
• 2307 Illustration 3 credits. Working in a variety of media from both observation and imagination, students will gain experience communicating ideas and content through the use of illustration. Projects include: Graphic novel, children’s book, editorial, comic strip among others. Prerequisite: ARTS 2301 or equivalent. 
• 2310 Mural Painting 3 credits. Instruction in design, development and practice of Faux and Decorative finishing techniques with an introduction to the use of these techniques in Tromp l'oeil and Mural painting.Prerequisite: ARTS 2511 or permission of instructor
• 2511 Beginning Painting 3 credits. Introduction of basic acrylic painting techniques. Fundamental concepts and skills including color mixing, use of tools and media, rendering form, spatial relationships and composition will be covered through a variety of projects, primarily from the still life. Foundations level course to be taken early in the Studio Art sequence. 
• 2513 Intermediate Painting 3 credits. Introduction of oil painting techniques through hands-on projects. An opportunity for students to develop their visual voice. Prerequisite: ARTS 2001 or ARTS 2511. 
• 2515, 2516 Advanced Painting I, II 3 credits. Extended study of painting as an expressive medium with a focus on formal and conceptual development. Use of oil, acrylic, and mixed media. Intended for the mature exploratory painter. Prerequisite: ARTS 2513. 
• 2700 Three-Dimensional Design 3 credits. A study in the fundamentals of Three Dimensional composition as used by architects, artists, and designers to successfully create products, objects, spaces and experiences. Introduction of basic three-dimensional processes and materials and development of the students’ ability to analyze form and space relationships as well as the various intersections of structure, form, and meaning. 
• 2701 Sculpture 3 credits. Concepts of modern sculpture explored through specific hands-on projects including: Carving, modeling, casting, and assemblage. 
• 2703 Model Making 3 credits. This course focuses on model making and its implementation as a three-dimensional communication tool in application to various design disciplines. Starting with scale drawing as a foundation, and with an emphasis on materials and techniques, the entire design and construction process will be explored from sketch models through finished color renditions. Prerequisite: ARTS 2700
• 2831 Creativity and Innovation 3 credits. Series of open-ended two and three-dimensional projects utilizing new materials and encouraging innovation, experimentation, and creativity. 
• 2901 Printmaking 3 credits. Introduction to a variety of printmaking techniques including: Linocut, lithograph and silkscreen. 
• 2902 Advanced Printmaking 3 credits. Advanced projects in printmaking; exploration of additional media and techniques.Prerequisite: ARTS 2901. 
• 3009 Introduction to Computer Design 3 credits. Students acquire a basic proficiency in the software programs essential to graphic design and visual communication: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. This course is the prerequisite for several intermediate level design courses and should be taken early in the Studio Art sequence. 
• 3012 Digital Photography 3 credits. An introduction to the fundamentals of digital photography. Basic camera operation, editing images, lighting and composition will be covered. Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom and other software are utilized to explore possibilities for image correction, manipulation and output. 
• 3013 Intermediate Design 3 credits. Extensive study of graphic design principles with a concentration on research, process and experimentation. Focusing on visual communication, students will familiarize themselves with the graphic design process through a range of projects for both print-based media and the screen. Emphasis on applying the appropriate software and tools to more complex and comprehensive design challenges. Prerequisites: ARTS 2201, 3009. 
• 3014 Typography 3 credits. Introduction to the fundamentals of typography: Typographic terms and technologies, compositions and systems. Projects utilize hand-made studio processes as well as computer technology. Focus on typography as an expressive medium that can create and support content through a variety of projects. Prerequisites: ARTS 2201, 3009. 
• 3018 Exhibition Design 3 credits. Study of the process and elements involved in exhibition design. Students will collaborate on the design of the annual Stern Senior Art Exhibition while relevant issues such as exhibition identity, environmental graphics, promotional materials and space planning are discussed. Intended for students interested in graphic design, interior design, architecture or museum studies. ARTS 2201 and ARTS 3014 recommended. 
• 3020 Introduction to Video 3 credits. Introduction to the fundamental techniques and processes of digital video production. Students take projects from concept to completion while learning basics in digital videography, editing and output. Projects include: Narrative short, music video and documentary. 
• 3021 Advanced Video 3 credits. This course builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in ARTS 3020. Advanced editing techniques, image manipulation tools, compositing, motion graphics and media management are covered. Students create both collaborative and independent video projects.Prerequisite: ARTS 3020. 
• 3022 Stop-Motion Animation 3 credits. An in-depth study of stop-motion animation and claymation studio methods. An overview of the history of animation will be combined with hands-on projects, story boarding, character development and set/scene design. Students will create their own animations using a variety of stop-motion techniques. 
• 3025 Intermediate Photography 3 credits. This course builds on the fundamentals acquired in Digital Photography and guides students to an advanced, working understanding of the medium. Students will become well versed in numerous technical approaches to image making (film, studio lighting, post production, fine art printing); hone their analytical skills through lectures, research and gallery visits; as well as learn about the realities of being a professional photographer.Prerequisite: ARTS 3012 
• 3026 Advanced Photography 3 credits. Extended study of the photographic medium focusing on advanced practices and concepts as well as portfolio development. Prerequisite: ARTS 3025 
• 3045 Advanced Design 3 credits. Concentration on sophisticated creative strategies and the advancement of personal style through a progression of rigorous and complex design projects. Intended to equip students to enter professional practice in graphic design, portfolio development will be emphasized. ARTS 3021 recommended. Prerequisites: ARTS 3013, 3014 
• 3830 Methods and Media 3 credits. Examination of traditional techniques of drawing and painting from a historical perspective while exploring contemporary applications. Covers two-dimensional media including: Silver-point, gold leaf, egg tempera, fresco, and encaustic. 
• 3842 Art Therapy 3 credits. Students will be introduced to the main theoretical approaches of art therapy. They will explore the therapeutic use of art materials and the context in which they are used. The class will consist of readings, lectures, discussions, art experientials and 2 site visits. 
• 3965-3970 Topics in Studio Art 3 credits
• 4901, 4902 Independent Study 
• 4932 Art and Experience in Medici Florence 3 credits. Covers the art and history of Florence— the center of the Italian Renaissance in the 15th century—as well as the role of the Jews and their contribution to Italian culture, through visits to Florence museums and monuments. Prerequisite: ARTS 1050 or ARTS 1052. Recommended: ARTS 1302.
• 4974 Pre Senior Project 0 credit. Students will conceptualize and prepare for the execution of their senior project, including project proposal approval by the Chair.  Prerequisite for continuing on to Senior Project, 4975.  
• 4975 Senior Project 1 credit. Mandatory exit project in which the student creates a culminating portfolio piece in her area of specialization. Required for studio art majors.

• Completed application 
• Essay
• $65 application fee
• Official TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Scores
• Official high school transcript
• Transcripts and copies of certificates must be in English or Hebrew
• SAT or ACT scores are required for students applying from CanadaYeshiva University's TOEFL school code is 2990
• Interview

Essays

All applicants, except for Honors Program applicants, must respond to one of the following prompts in 750 words or fewer.

• You are tasked with designing a new interdisciplinary course for first year students at your university. What would this course be, what is its value, and why does it appeal to you? 
•  Throughout Tanach, history, and literature, there are many examples of people who have prevailed in spite of or because of their imperfections. Can you think of one “flaw” that you would choose to keep rather than give up? Explain. 

Scholarships

• Deans' Scholarships
• JFEW Science Fellowships

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art at Yeshiva University offers students a comprehensive education in the visual arts, emphasizing both technical skills and conceptual development. The program is designed to foster creativity, experimental practices, and critical thinking, providing students with opportunities to explore various mediums such as painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, and digital art. Students are encouraged to develop a personal artistic voice while gaining a solid foundation in art history and contemporary art practices.

The curriculum typically includes coursework in traditional and modern art techniques, art theory, and professional practices. Students participate in studio work, critiques, and exhibitions to build their portfolios and gain real-world experience. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in fine arts, illustration, design, art education, or further graduate study. Mentorship by experienced faculty members who are active artists themselves plays a vital role in students' artistic growth.

Yeshiva University’s location in New York City provides students with unique access to museums, galleries, and a vibrant arts community, enhancing their educational experience. Collaborative projects, internships, and community outreach programs are integral parts of the curriculum, allowing students to engage with a broader audience and develop their professional networks. The program emphasizes the development of technical proficiency, aesthetic sensibility, and innovative thinking, enabling students to contribute meaningfully to the contemporary art world.

The degree combines rigorous studio training with liberal arts education, preparing students to not only excel as artists but also to critically analyze and understand cultural and social issues through their work. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue graduate studies or to enter the creative industries. Overall, the Studio Art program at Yeshiva University seeks to nurture imaginative, skilled, and socially aware artists ready to make an impact in their fields.