he Southwest School of Art, located in San Antonio, Texas, has been one of the premier community art schools in the nation since its founding in 1965. The School annually serves more than 4,000 students on the historic campus downtown, and reaches an additional 5,000 throughout the city’s schools and social service agencies. In 2014, the School began an intimate, intensive college degree program. The Southwest School of Art is the first and only independent college of art in Texas. The four-year BFA degree program centers on the process of making as a form of inquiry and discovery, with equal emphasis on ideas and skills. Students learn to value both traditional and innovative approaches and to move freely between the creation of one-of-a kind works and applied design.
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At SSA, students experience very small class sizes and study with working artists in some of the best facilities in the Southwest. Our program and faculty ask students to take risks in their work, explore new possibilities, to collaborate, to evaluate, reflect, and communicate clearly. Students also have the chance to engage in the San Antonio community and to build a professional studio practice.
Program
Ryan Takaba, To Come Home, 2011
4-year Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art The college program provides opportunities for students to work across disciplines with the option of focusing on one area of emphasis:
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Ceramics
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Drawing & Painting
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Metals
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Photography
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Printmaking
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Sculpture & Integrated Media
Facilities Students will create work in over 33,000 square feet of well-equipped, industrystandard studio facilities. With some of the country’s best studio spaces and equipment at their disposal, students will effectively express ideas and explore new ways of making.
Faculty Some of the region’s best working artists will help students find, polish, and deliver their unique approach to creating art. Due to the small class size, student artists work directly with department chairs and other full-time faculty.
Class Size Only 20–25 students enrolled each fall. 4:1 student to faculty ratio in Fall 2015. Students share intense studio experiences within a totally art-focused environment, a place where creative people find their voice and flourish as artists.
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Ceramics -
Experiment with expressing ideas visually
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Understand the material and its processes
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Explore the evolving history of clay
CRMC
The Ceramics Studio is a 8,000 square foot facility that includes studio space for: ▶▶
Wheel-throwing and hand-building
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Glazing and decorating
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A variety of firing methods
C E R A M I C S FA C U LT Y Ryan Takaba (department chair) holds an MFA in Ceramics from Kent State University and a BFA from the University of Hawai‘i. His recent solo exhibitions include SMARTart Project Space, San Antonio; Philadelphia Clay Studio, Philadelphia; and G2 Art Sight, San Antonio. Before joining The Southwest School of Art, he was the Artist-in-Residence/Studio Manager for the University of Massachusetts–Dartmouth Ceramics department. Jennifer Ling Datchuk holds an MFA in Artisanry from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and a BFA in Crafts from Kent State University. In 2010, she was awarded a grant from the Artist Foundation of San Antonio and a travel grant from Artpace to research the birthplace of porcelain in Jingdezhen, China. Currently residing in San Antonio, Texas, she maintains a studio, teaching practice and small design line of ceramic objects for the home. Blake Kennedy graduated from Appalachian State University with a BFA in Ceramics and Sculpture in 2010. After graduation he set up his studio in Boone, NC, and in the spring of 2014 worked as the Studio Manager in the clay area at Appalachian State University. Dennis Smith (professor emeritus).
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Explore materials
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Develop a conceptual framework
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Experiment with style, form, and structure
Vincent Valdez, America’s Finest (II), 2011
Drawing & Painting
PNTG
The Drawing & Painting department includes: ▶▶
Spacious, well-lit studios
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Spaces and equipment for various approaches
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Ventilation and safe storage
D R AW I N G & PA I N T I N G FA C U LT Y Chris Sauter (interim department chair) received his MFA at UTSA. He exhibits nationally and internationally with exhibitions in New York; Houston; Dallas; Miami; Sheboygan, WI; Los Angeles; Paris; Limerick; Ireland; and Léon, Mexico. His works have been featured at many institutions such as the Musée d’Art Moderne Saint-Etienne, France; The Drawing Center, NY;Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art; the Contemporary Art Museum, Houston; the Dallas Museum of Art; and PS1, New York. He decorates cakes and designs and builds theatre sets in his spare time. Vincent Valdez received his BFA from The Rhode Island School of Design. His extensive list of solo exhibitions most recently includes McNay Art Museum, San Antonio; Brown University, Providence, RI; Mesa Contemporary Arts Center, Mesa, AZ; and Federal Art Project, Los Angeles, CA. Gregory Alan Johnson earned his MFA in Printmaking and Drawing at Texas Tech University and completed his BFA with a concentration in Printmaking at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. He recently exhibited work in a solo show at Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts, Lubbock.
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Metals
MTLS
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Experiment with nontraditional materials, scale, and format
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Emphasize concept and design
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Explore the hybridization among art, craft, and design
The Metals Studio is a state-of-the-art space that includes the tools and equipment for techniques such as: ▶▶
Soldering and riveting
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Mold-making and casting
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Electroforming and enameling
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Computer-aided construction
M E TA L S FA C U LT Y
Jillian Palone, Adumbration 2, 2013
Jillian Palone (interim department chair) holds an MFA with Metalsmithing emphasis from Southern Illinois University–Edwardsville and a BFA in Jewelry Design and Metals from Pittsburg State University. Recent exhibitions include shows at the Center for the Visual Arts, Denton, Texas; Equinox Gallery, San Antonio; and Bellevue Arts Museum, Seattle, Washington.
Sarah Roberts received her MFA in Jewelry Design and Metalsmithing from Texas Tech University with a secondary emphasis in digital photography. Her works have been selected for many national exhibitions including extremities: Exploring the Margins of the Human Body in Houston; SelfSearching: the Art of Self-Portraiture in Middlebury, Vermont; and Materials: Hard & Soft, jurored by Marilyn de Silva. Her artwork was selected for publication and exhibition in the 5th Biennial Ashes to Art and she has transformed several spaces with site-specific installations.
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Photography
PHOT
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Explore photography’s history, theory, and contemporary practice
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Learn innovative techniques for working across media
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Experiment with traditional and nontraditional imaging
The Photography Studio includes: ▶▶
Large darkroom with 12 work stations
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Individual darkrooms
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Digital studio with large scale printers
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Alternative processes and lighting techniques
P H O T O G R A P H Y FA C U LT Y Victor Pagona (department chair) earned his MFA in Photography and Sculpture at the University of South Carolina and his MA in Art History at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. Recent exhibitions include shows at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, San Antonio; Gallery 777, Toledo, Ohio; and the Kruk Gallery, Superior, Wisconsin.
Joe Harjo received an MFA from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a BFA from the University of Central Oklahoma. Recent exhibitions include shows at the Ben Bailey Gallery, Texas A&M University in Kingsville; Martinez Fine Arts Center, Laredo; and the Blue Star Contemporary Art Center, San Antonio.
Victor Pagona, Skull 2, 2013
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Printmaking -
Explore traditional methods including relief, etching, lithography and screenprinting
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Focus on the technical and conceptual
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Experiment with contemporary innovations
PRMK
The Flohr Printmaking Studio is one of the best-equipped studios in South Texas. It includes: ▶▶
70 litho stones
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Two litho presses and three large etching presses
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Non-toxic processes
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Ventiliation hoods
P R I N T M A K I N G FA C U LT Y Margaret Craig (department chair) received an MFA in Printmaking from the University of Texas at San Antonio. At the University of Wisconsin she earned a BS in Biology, BS in Art, and MA in Art with an emphasis in watercolor painting. A leader in non-toxic printmaking technology, she often leads workshops at national conferences.
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Sculpture & Integrated Media -
Experiment with the evolution of traditional sculpture
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Combine sculpture with other media and technology
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Explore ideas, methods, and practitioners from both the past and present
The new Sculpture & Integrated Media Studio includes: ▶▶
Traditional tools and equipment
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CNC milling
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3D printer
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Video and sound production equipment
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New interactive and kinetic platforms
S C U L P T U R E & I N T E G R AT E D M E D I A FA C U LT Y Justin Boyd (department chair) received his MFA at The California Institute of the Arts and completed his BFA from The University of Texas at San Antonio. He has shown his work in numerous solo and group exhibitions throughout Texas, including Artpace, San Antonio; Art Palace, Houston; and the Blue Star Contemporary Art Center, San Antonio.
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SIMD
Book Arts & Papermaking
PAPE
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Understand 2- and 3-dimensional forms
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Explore a range of techniques
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Experiment with paper pulp for multiple applications
The Papermaking & Book Arts Studios are equipped with: ▶▶
Beaters for making paper pulp
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Moulds, deckles, dryers
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Presses for forming paper
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Tools and equipment for making artist books
BOOK ARTS & PA P E R M A K I N G FA C U LT Y Beck Whitehead (department chair) received an MFA from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a BA from Trinity University. Whitehead has taught papermaking workshops at Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts, Pyramid Atlantic, Haystack, and at national conferences.
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Class Components
Margaret Craig, Parts in Nurdles (Detail), 2013
STUDIO CLASSES: ▶▶
Learn the materials, technical skills, and 2- and 3-dimensional design fundamentals employed in an array of art forms
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Studio classes meet for six hours each week — usually in two, threehour sessions
NON-STUDIO CLASSES: ▶▶
Include business, math, science, literature, art history, economics, and philosophy, all taught with relevance to art and design
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Non-studio classes meet twice weekly for 75 minutes
ACADEMIC YEAR: ▶▶
Fall and spring semesters, plus a Maymester
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Fall and spring courses are taught on the 15 week semester system
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Maymester is an intensive, four-week term of four-hour studios, Monday through Thursday.
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Juan Zavala-Castro, Class of 2018, Jessi: Te seguimos recordando tu mamรก y tus hermanos, 2015
Curriculum
YEAR THREE
YEAR TWO
YEAR ONE
FA L L
SPRING
M AY M E S T E R
Foundations
Foundations II
Drawing I
Drawing II
Art History: Survey I
Art History: Survey II
Photography
Visual Literacy
Intro to Philosophy
Printmaking
College Writing
The Aesthetics of Math
Foundations and Digital Media
General Science for Artists
Art History Survey III
Intro to Economics
Understanding Literature
Public Speaking
Intro to Psychology
Papermaking
Choose One (1000 level):
Choose One (1000 level): Sculpture & Integrated Media
Second Year Interdisciplinary Studio
Choose One (2000 level): Metals
Metals
Ceramics
Ceramics
Painting
Painting
Sculpture & Integrated Media
Sculpture & Integrated Media
Photography
Photography
Printmaking
Printmaking
Philosophy: Critical Inquiry
Community Project
Latin American History
Professionalism I
Material Culture
Artist in Literature and Film
Choose Two (2/3000 level):
Art History: Contemporary Special Topics
All studios offered
Internship
Choose One (2/3000 level):
YEAR FOUR
All studios offered
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Professionalism II
Senior Project
Intellectual History
Psychology: The Individual and Society
Choose Two (3/4000 level):
Choose One (3/4000 level):
All studios offered
All studios offered
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Admissions
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: ▶▶
Completed application, online or paper
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$40 application fee
The application can be found online at www.swschool.org/bfaapplicationforms
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TIMELINE:
Results from ACT or SAT examinations (SAT or ACT scores must include the Writing component, not required if applicant has been out of high school for more than two years). ACT code: 6916, SAT code: 7260
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Official high school transcripts, and college transcripts if applicable, or equivalent:
at The Southwest School of Art
March 1 – Priority application and scholarship deadline
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If home schooled, verification that the home school has been recognized by the state of residence of the applicant, detailed outline of the homeschool curriculum, including subject areas studied, time spent on each discipline, and, if applicable, grades awarded. A home-school academic portfolio may fulfill this requirement.
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A certificate of General Educational Development (GED) from the American Council of Education is considered equivalent to a diploma from a U.S. high school.
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For applicants from countries other than the United States, The Southwest School of Art generally uses the standards established by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers to determine the equivalent academic achievement.
March 15 – Acceptance and award letters mailed Applications will continue to be accepted after March 15; however, applicants who apply early will have a greater chance of receiving scholarships. May 1 – Fall enrollment deposit ($250) due August 1 – Applications close for Fall October 15 – Applications close for Spring
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Essay response to one of the questions found on the application form (follow directions on the application)
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A minimum of one letter of recommendation
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Digital portfolio (see next page for details)
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Evidence of English proficiency (as needed)
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Additionally, if applicable, any other documents or materials required to obtain a student visa
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Resume (optional)
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Interview (optional; may be required by the Admission Committee)
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Portfolio Requirements ▶▶
Digital portfolios required (submitted on flash drive or CD)
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10-15 images of applicant’s original work (no more than 3 detail shots)
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Three examples of observational drawing, including at least one still life
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Still images formatted at JPEGs, 800 x 600 or smaller, 300 DPI
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Inventory sheet requires: //
The names of the files on the CD or flash drive, the title of the works, the medium or media of the works depicted, the actual size of the works, and the computer platform (Mac or PC).
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May also include a very brief commentary by the applicant on concept, process, or other relevant information.
“The Southwest School of Art is a wonderful community where creativity is given the ability to grow. My own ideas have been nurtured and been given opportunities to be shown. I am happy for all the new people that will be part of my school because this is a great place to be an artist.” Zachary Jones, Class of 2018
The applicant’s name, address, and email address must be clearly labeled on the CD or flash drive. Please check the CD or flash drive to assure that files are readable and accessible before submitting it for consideration. Digital portfolios will become part of the student’s file and will not be returned. Students should retain a copy of their materials.
Mindy Tillman, Class of 2018, Untitled, 2015
“One of the many things that caught my interest about SSA was its curriculum. As an art student, I think it is crucial that each subject in the curriculum is structured in a way to best benefit you as an artist. I was hesitant to pursue an art education at a big university because, unlike SSA, Santoya, most curriculums are generalized.” Christy Class of 2019 26
“When I heard that Southwest School of Art was going to start a BFA program, I immediately knew it would be a program that I wanted to be a part of. I chose to pursue my BFA at SSA because I knew that there I would be treated like family rather than just some familiar face at an overpopulated university. As an artist, this was and will always be something important to me because with family comes love, respect, and the opportunity for growth in my artistic life as well as my personal life.” Lauri Jones, Class of 2018
Scholarships To be considered for scholarship funds, please submit: ▶▶
A short essay outlining reasons that The Southwest School of Art should consider the applicant for a scholarship
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Applicants should include a copy of their (or their family’s) most recent tax returns OR a FAFSA
Federal financial aid is not available at this time. Scholarship recommendations will be based on: ▶▶
Academic merit
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Artistic merit
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Demonstrated need
For maximum scholarship consideration, students should apply by the priority deadline.
Tuition & Fees Tuition is $605 per credit hour: Year 1/33 hours: $19,965
Zach Jones, Class of 2018, Woven, 2015
Year 2/33 hours: $19,965 Year 3/30 hours: $18,150 Year 4/24 hours: $14,520 These charges are subject to change.
Fees per semester:
Student Activity Fee (full-time) $150 Student Activity Fee (part-time) $75 Technology $50 Registration $60
One time fees:
Orientation $100 Graduation $100 The Southwest School of Art understands that students may need assistance in funding their education and offers a tuition payment plan. Details are available online and from the Office of Admission. 29
Exhibitions & Visiting Artists The Southwest School of Art hosts an actively changing schedule of contemporary art in our galleries. The Russell Hill Rogers Galleries showcase innovative, diverse, and acclaimed work by regional, national and international artists in a dedicated 3,500 square feet of museum-quality space on the Navarro Campus. Other galleries at the school show new works by regional artists, visiting artists, and artists associated with the school. The galleries are free and open to the public daily and also the site for artist presentations, workshops, and special events.
“We’re a small but really friendly group of people, and there’s always someone to help whether it’s faculty, staff, or students.” Layla Ventura, Class of 2018
Amada Miller, Class of 2018, Cairn, 2015
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“What I love about SSA is that we are studying in such an intimate environment under working artists. Also, we have the community program which allows us to be surrounded by artists from around the city creating enormous diversity. The benefits of such a small program are apparent in the close relationships we have formed.� Ali Wiesse, Class of 2018
Student Life The office of Student Affairs was built to ensure that students are mentally, emotionally, and physically at their best so that they can produce their best work in the classroom and out of it. The Southwest School of Art makes it a priority to build opportunities for engagement, and the director works to facilitate growth and development in students professionally and personally. Through internships, activities, community service, and much more, the SSA supports its students. The office also facilitates mentorship opportunities with professional artists, clubs, and organizations to build leadership skills, peer support networks, innovation, and academic support services through the San Antonio Central Library. Students can also apply to be a part of a study abroad program to the Santa Reparata International School of Art (SRISA) Florence, Italy.
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The City San Antonio is a vibrant, diverse city much beloved by artists. The strong and well-connected art community is supported by a rich multi-cultural feel, beautiful urban neighborhoods, significant historic sites, award-winning restaurants, a low cost of living and an energetic downtown scene. The Southwest School of Art is right in the middle of it all, perfectly located along the world-famous San Antonio River. We’re only a short walk or bike ride from the San Antonio Museum of Art, Artpace, the Pearl, and the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.
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Ursuline Campus
Visit Campus See our amazing facilities and meet our outstanding faculty. Understand what makes the Southwest School of Art the perfect place to begin your career as a working artist! All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.
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OP E N H OU S E S:
SPECI AL PORTFOLI O CLASS!
Learn about admissions criteria and scholarship information, tour SSA, meet with faculty, participate in a workshop, and receive informal portfolio feedback
Portfolio Development: Observational Drawing
Saturday, September 19, 1 – 3pm Saturday, December 5, 10am – 12pm McNutt Welcome Center AUG USTA ST.
Navarro Campus
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1201 NAVARRO
S A P L M S A R C
Ursuline Campus
Navarro Campus
McAllister Ceramics Building
Russell Hill Rogers Galleries Russell Hill Rogers Lecture Hall Ellison Lecture Hall Exhibitions Office Student Lounge Willson Metals Studio Bank of America Digital Studio Lende Photography Studio Sculpture and Integrated Media Studio Picante Paper Studio Book Arts Studio Duncan Painting & Drawing Studio Drawing & Painting Studio Droste Design Studio Flohr Printmaking Studio General Education Classroom
Administrative Offices Copper Kitchen Café Student Lounge Ursuline Hall Gallery Bolner Conference Room Rentals Office Ursuline History Center McNutt Welcome Center Visitor Information Office of the Registrar Director of Admission Director of Student Affairs Negley Academy Building Young Artist Programs Office Hennessey Children’s Studio Kimbro Children’s Studio Blumenthal Studio Block Studio Bowers Studio Briscoe Studio Hendrie Studio Coates Chapel Tobin Priest’s House Maxham Fibers Studio 36
P OR T FOLIO P R E PAR AT ION D AY: Learn tips and tricks for putting together a dynamic portfolio and receive informal portfolio feedback Saturday, January 30, 10am – 3pm McNutt Welcome Center
AP P LICAT ION AS S IS TAN CE D ATES: Receive individual assistance on your application before the priority deadline of March 1
Saturday, November 14, 10am – 2pm Drawing Studio | Navarro RSVP to admission@swschool.org by October 31 TThis class is designed for the high school student, adult, or college transfer student seeking to develop their portfolio. Observational drawing, the number one area where top art schools want to see proficiency, will be the focus. Students are encouraged to bring a portfolio of current work for feedback and direction. More information will be provided upon RSVP. QUESTIONS? Contact the Office of Admission at the Southwest School of Art 210.224.1848 admission@swschool.org www.swschool.org/bfa
Saturday, February 20, 1 – 8pm McNutt Welcome Center The Southwest School of Art admits students of any race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, sex, age, religion, disability (if otherwise qualified for admission), military/veteran status, sexual orientation or any other status protected under federal, state or local laws, to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made to students at the school. The SSA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, sex, age, religion, disability (if otherwise qualified for admission), military/veteran status, sexual orientation or any other status protected under federal, state or local laws in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
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S TA F F Teri Hatch Aguilar, Exhibitions Coordinator Leigh Baldwin, Director of Communications Kori Bennett, Registrar Stephanie Peché Canales, Development Associate Olga Castano, Visitor Specialist Chris Cochran, Maintenance Ed Conroy, Jr., Director of Development Edward Dupuy, Dean Kristine Duran, Assistant to the Registrar Cesario Garcia, Groundskeeper Kelly Johnston, Director of Admission and Recruitment Sylvia Glatman, Rentals Manager Shannon Gowen, Media and Marketing Manager Ed Hepner, Facilities Manager Sonia Hernandez, Chief Financial Officer Barbara Hill, Director of Community Programs Patricia Morales, Director of Young Artist Programs Jessica Nance, Executive Assistant Paula Owen, President Christine Quattro, Director of Student Affairs Yvette Ramirez, Maintenance Teresa Rodríguez, Director of Information Systems Noelia Saavedra, Accountant Regina Sanders, Assistant Director of Young Artist Programs Stephen J. Strapple, Director of Operations Mary Mikel Stump, Director of Exhibitions Jerry Vásquez, Maintenance Lyn Woods, Development Assistant F A C U LT Y Justin Boyd, Sculpture and Integrated Media Department Chair Margaret A. Craig, Printmaking Department Chair Casey Galloway, Interim Fibers Program Coordinator Joe Harjo, Photography Faculty and Studio Manager Robert Hils, Fibers Department Faculty Emeritus Gregory Alan Johnson, Faculty and Studio Manager Blake Kennedy, Ceramics Technician Jennifer Ling Datchuk, Ceramics Faculty Victor Pagona, Photography Department Chair Jillian Palone, Metals Interim Department Chair Sarah Roberts, Metals Faculty and Studio Manager Chris Sauter, Drawing and Painting Interim Department Chair Dennis W. Smith, Ceramics Faculty Emeritus Ryan Takaba, Ceramics Department Chair Vincent Valdez, Drawing and Painting Faculty Beck Whitehead, Paper and Book Arts Department Chair 38
Beck Whitehead, Between Flora and Fauna, 2014