SCULPTURE

The sculpture program at UH empowers students to push boundaries through material exploration, conceptual thinking, and community engagement. With access to cutting-edge studios and mentorship from active artists, you'll shape your own path in today’s art world.
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BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS IN SCULPTURE (BFA)

The BFA in Sculpture at the University of Houston offers a dynamic and expansive approach to contemporary sculpture, blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative, conceptual practices. With a 40-year legacy in shaping the regional art community, the program emphasizes sculpture as an adaptable and intelligent practice that seeks to redefine artistic boundaries.

Students begin with fundamentals and processes courses, building a strong foundation in tools, techniques, and formal principles. As they progress, intermediate and advanced classes expand their conceptual understanding, encouraging critical discussions and the creation of meaningful, impactful work. Visiting artists, curators, and critics further enrich the experience through lectures, critiques, and workshops.

The program provides access to state-of-the-art facilities across two buildings, including the Fine Arts building and the new Elgin Street Studios. These spaces feature fully equipped wood and metal shops, ceramics facilities, and private studios, supporting students as they bring ambitious creative visions to life.

The BLOCK program is a transformative phase in the Sculpture BFA journey, offering students an intensive, professional-level experience in their junior and senior years. Admission is determined through a competitive portfolio review, ensuring a cohort of dedicated and talented sculptors.

Key features of the BLOCK program include:

  • Personalized Studio Access: BLOCK students receive their own studio spaces within the Elgin Street Studios, granting 24/7 access to world-class facilities for wood, metal, and ceramics fabrication.
  • Critical Dialogue: Group critiques, class discussions, and individual mentoring with area faculty foster a dynamic atmosphere for artistic growth.
  • Professional Exposure: Internships with Houston’s vibrant art institutions, such as DiverseWorks and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, offer hands-on experience tailored to students’ career interests.
  • Visiting Artists: Engage with influential artists like Mel Chin, Nicholas Galanin, and Jemima Wyman for fresh perspectives and inspiration.
    For more information about advancing into the BLOCK program, students can contact Jillian Conrad at jconrad@uh.edu.

MASTERS OF FINE ARTS IN SCULPTURE (MFA)

The MFA in Sculpture at the University of Houston is a dynamic program designed to cultivate innovative and critically viable artistic practices. With a legacy of shaping the regional art community, the program fosters exploration across traditional, inter-media, and hybrid forms of sculpture, encouraging students to push boundaries and redefine contemporary art.

Key features of the program include:

  • Private Studios and Facilities: MFA candidates have 24/7 access to private studios and state-of-the-art facilities, including fully equipped wood and metal workshops, ceramics labs, and spacious critique spaces at the Elgin Street Studios and Fine Arts building.
  • Collaborative Learning: Engage with a diverse cohort of faculty, peers, and visiting artists to refine your work and expand your creative vision. Past visitors include Mel Chin, Nicholas Galanin, and Kahlil Robert Irving.
  • Hands-On Experience: Internship opportunities with Houston’s vibrant art institutions, including the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, provide real-world insights into the art industry.
  • Community Engagement: The program’s strong ties to Houston’s art community offer students exhibition opportunities and professional connections that extend beyond the university.

MFA candidates benefit from financial support through scholarships, assistantships, and teaching fellowships, ensuring they can focus on honing their craft. Graduates of the program go on to become impactful artists, educators, and leaders, contributing to the cultural vitality of Houston and beyond.

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