Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics

One of the primary reasons for Tyler’s preeminent reputation among institutions of higher education is the collective record of achievement produced by its graduates. Tyler’s philosophy emphasizes the investigation and articulation of concepts leading to a high level of personal inquiry, resulting in work that challenges and extends the traditional boundaries of the media and their accepted definitions. The Crafts Department encompasses the media disciplines of Ceramics/Glass, Fibers and Material Studies, and Metals/Jewelry/CAD-CAM. These disciplines are rooted in a rich history, developed and refined within a contemporary context, and practiced and experienced through a series of formal presentations and evaluations. The Crafts Department faculty endeavor to refine and interpret Crafts traditions, techniques, and concepts while also pursuing the frontiers of their disciplines through their studio practice. Students are challenged to explore the broad cultural and historical contexts in which their disciplines are made, exhibited, and experienced. They are encouraged to pursue their individual visions with an attitude of curiosity and imagination. The end goal of the curriculum is the education of a Crafts artist who will be creatively active throughout their lives, contributing to the enrichment of not only the communities in which they live and work, but the world community as well. Upon graduation, students go on to careers in art education, design, the arena of not-for-profit and commercial galleries, and the professional practice of a studio artist. Many students go on to graduate school in order to receive further training and research for their eventual professional careers.