3 00 A u g u s ta Sa n A nt o ni o , T X 7 8 205 210.224.1848 www. s w s c h o o l . org
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. Graduates from the Southwest School of Art’s college degree program acquire the business, critical thinking, and studio skills necessary for careers as working artists and engaged citizens.
Program 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.
Ryan Takaba, To Come Home, 2011
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 6,500 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 Dennis Smith (department chair) received an MFA in Ceramics from the University of Montana and a BFA in Ceramics from the Kansas City Art Institute, with additional study at Haystack. He exhibits his work both nationally and internationally. Smith’s work has been featured in Ceramics Monthly, Ceramics: Arts and Perception, and Clay Times.
Ryan Takaba 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 Artistin-Residence/Studio Manager for the University of Massachusetts–Dartmouth Ceramics department.
Drawing & Painting -
Explore materials
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Develop a conceptual framework
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Experiment with style, form, and structure
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 Vincent Valdez (department chair) 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, Arizona; and Federal Art Project, Los Angeles, California.
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.
Vincent Valdez, America’s Finest (II), 2011
MTLS
Metals -
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 Gary Schott (department chair) received his MFA in Metal/Jewelry Design from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a BFA from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Schott’s work explores sculptural mechanical forms and interactive wearable jewelry. His work is included in 500 Pendants and Lockets and 500 Metal Vessels, both by Lark Books.
Jillian Palone 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.
Jillian Palone, Adumbration 2, 2013
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 ap h y F a c u l t 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
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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2 litho presses and 3 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.
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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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.
SIMD
Book Arts & Papermaking (coursework only) -
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 & P ap e r m a k i n g F a c u l t 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.
PAPE
Class Components 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
A c ad e m i c y e a r : ▶▶
Fall and spring semesters, plus a Maymester
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Fall and spring courses are taught on the 15 week semester system
Maymester is an intensive, four-week term of four-hour studios, Monday through Thursday.
Margaret Craig, Parts in Nurdles (Detail), 2013
Abraham Vasquez, SSA Class of 2018, Youth in Purple, 2013
Curriculum
year Two
ye ar o ne
Fa l l
Spring
M ay m e s t e r
Foundations I
Foundations II
Choose One (1000 level):
Drawing I
Drawing II
Sculpture & Integrated Media
Art History: Survey I
Art History: Survey II
Photography
Visual Literacy
Intro to Philosophy
Printmaking
English Composition
Mathematics for Artists
Foundations and Digital Media
Papermaking I
Choose One (2000 level):
Art History: Early Modernism to Contemporary
General Science for Artists
Metals
Understanding Literature
Intro to Economics
Intro to Psychology
Public Speaking
Choose One (1000 level):
Choose One (1000 level):
Metals
All studios offered
Ceramics
Ceramics Painting Sculpture & Integrated Media Photography Printmaking
year THREE
Painting Philosophy: Critical Inquiry
Professionalism I
Latin American History
Artist in Literature and Film
Material Culture
Art History: Special Topics
Choose Two (2/3000 level):
Community Project
All studios offered
Choose One (2/3000 level):
Internship
year F OUR
All studios offered Professionalism II
Psychology: The Individual and Society
Intellectual History
Senior Project
Choose Two (3/4000 level):
Choose One (3/4000 level):
All studios offered
All studios offered
Students whose test scores indicate a need for more fundamental studies in English or Math may be required to complete developmental work. Please see the SSA BFA Catalog for more information.
Admissions
at The Southwest School of Art The application can be found online at www.swschool.org.
Timeline: February 20 – Priority application and scholarship deadline 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 Applications for Spring are due October 15. Scholarships and spaces are limited.
A P P LIC A TION r e q u i r e m e n t s : ▶▶
Completed application, online or paper
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$40 application fee
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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)
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Official high school transcripts, and college transcripts if applicable, or equivalent: //
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.
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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)
Portfolio Requirements ▶▶
10-15 images of applicant’s original work (no more than three detail shots)
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Three examples of observational drawing , including at least one still life
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Digital portfolios required (submitted on flash drive or CD)
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Inventory sheet required (see below)
Still image files should be formatted as JPEGs, with pixel dimension of 800 x 600 or smaller, with a DPI of 300. The applicant’s name, address, and email address must be clearly labeled on the CD. Please check the CD to assure that files are readable and accessible before submitting it for consideration. Digital portfolios must be accompanied by an inventory detailing the following: the names of the files on the CD, the title of the works, the medium or media of the works depicted, the actual size of the works, the dates of the works, and computer platform (Mac or PC). The portfolio inventory sheet may also include a very brief commentary by the applicant on concept, process, or other relevant information. Digital portfolios will become part of the student’s file and will not be returned. Applicants should retain a separate copy of their materials.
Audrey LeGalley SSA legacy Cl ass of 2018 Audrey is a first time freshman from Boerne High School in Boerne, Texas. She is the recipient of a partial tuition scholarship.
What is your background in art?
What made you choose SSA?
I have been practicing art since I can remember; as I entered high school I decided to make a life in the arts. I’ve worked with all media, from painting to ceramics to photography. I’ve taken countless art courses in high school as well as summer workshops. Junior year, I advanced to state in VASE with a work of art.
SSA was the perfect school for me for multiple reasons including tuition cost, the beautiful location, class size and amazing staff.
What do you want to focus on here at SSA? Painting and drawing. I plan to develop my individual style and perfect my techniques.
Audrey LeGalley, SSA Class of 2018, Andrew, 2013
What are you most looking forward to about SSA? Making wonderful connections in the art field, learning all about my love, getting to create everyday, and meeting new people. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In 10 years I would love to have made a name for myself in the art field as well as worked with musical groups, creating artwork for their albums.
Ayanna Irek SSA legacy Cl ass of 2018 Ayanna is a transfer student from Northwest Vista College. She is the recipient of a partial tuition scholarship, made possible in part by the Argo Group.
What is your background in art?
What kind of artist do you want to be?
Besides dabbling in drawing since I was a little girl, I have an Associate of Art from Northwest Vista College, I was president and secretary (respectively) for the art club at Northwest Vista, and I volunteered for the MOSAIC program at Blue Star
I would like to be a well-rounded artist. I love painting and drawing, but I feel I do not experiment or push my abilities far enough. I want to break from my comfort zone, learn about different media and tools, and then include the knowledge in my creative process.
What do you want to focus on here at SSA? I will most likely focus on painting and drawing, but I am ready to explore everything! What made you choose SSA? I chose SSA because I could not stand the thought of attending a large university and knowing my money was going to other programs that are not related to fine art. What are you most looking forward to about SSA? I am looking forward to attending classes with other creative students, and getting my hands and clothes dirty! Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In ten years I hope to have my Master’s Degree and be working on a Doctorate; I would also love to teach at a Community College or University.
Ayanna Irek, SSA Class of 2018, Fun In a Bottle, 2013
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 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.
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.
Zachary Jones, SSA Class of 2018, Transformation, 2014
Juan Zavala-Castro SSA legacy Cl ass of 2018 Juan is a transfer student from Northwest Vista College and the recipient of the Margaret D. Harris Scholarship.
What made you choose SSA? The Southwest School of Art really feels like it was made for me. My parents have always been hesitant for me to study art, and were even more hesitant for me to do so away from home. The fact that an institution such as this one is here in Texas feels like answered prayers. The location is perfect, the campus is beautiful, and the faculty is more than I could ever asked for. It was a no brainer. And my parents are now at ease!
personal experiences, interests and emotions. I have goals and dreams, but only time will tell.
What do you want to focus on here at SSA? While at the Southwest School of Art I plan to concentrate in ceramics, but I’m also very interested in painting and drawing. To be honest I just want to learn it all. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In ten years I see myself hopefully in my own studio, working hard, and making pieces that illustrate my own
What kind of artist do you want to be? I want to be an artist that makes a mark and never stops working. It doesn’t matter where my life takes me or the things that will happen. I like to think I’m not the only young artist that would like to change our society for the better, as many artists have done before, but the ultimate goal is to never stop making art. It is what makes me happy. If I can leave a better world for other young artists, I will be fulfilled.
Juan Zavala-Castro, SSA Class of 2018, Host, 2014
Student Life The office of Student Services 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. Southwest School of Art makes it a priority to build opportunities for engagement, and the coordinator 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, and 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.
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
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Navarro Campus
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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 Student Services Coordinator 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
Visit Campus See our amazing facilities, 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.
Op en H o u ses:
Spe c i a l P or t folio Clas s !
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, October 4, 10am Saturday, December 13, 10am
Po rt f o l io pre pa r atio n day: Learn tips and tricks for putting together a dynamic portfolio and receive informal portfolio feedback Saturday, January 31, 10am
A pp l ic at io n assis ta n c e dat e s : Receive individual assistance on your application before the priority deadline of March 1 Friday, February 13, 1pm-8pm McNutt Welcome Center
Saturday, November 1 | 10am-3pm Drawing Studio | Navarro Tuition: $85 (Members: $70) | 1 session This class is designed for the high school student, adult, or college transfer student seeking to develop their portfolio. Observational drawing, the number one thing top art schools want to see proficiency in, will be the focus. Students are encouraged to bring a portfolio of current work for feedback and direction. Please bring small sketch book. Includes drawing materials; however, students are encouraged to additional drawing supplies such as colored pencils or pastels of their choice. Lunch is provided. Questions? Contact the Office of Admission at the Southwest School of Art 210.224.1848 admission@swschool.org www.swschool.org
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.
Beck Whitehead, Between Flora and Fauna, 2014
S TA F F Teri Hatch Aguilar, Exhibitions Coordinator Kathy Armstrong, Director of Exhibitions Leigh Baldwin, Director of Communications Kori Bennett, Registrar Stephanie Peché Canales, Development Associate Olga Castano, Visitor Specialist Ed Conroy, Jr., Director of Development Edward Dupuy, Dean Cesario Garcia, Groundskeeper Michelle Garrigan-Durant, Director of Admission and Recruitment Sylvia Glatman, Rentals Manager Ed Hepner, Facilities Manager Kambri Hernandez, Assistant to the Registrar Barbara Hill, Director of Community Programs Kiko Martinez, Digital Media Manager Patricia Morales, Director of Young Artist Programs Paula Owen, President Christine Quattro, Coordinator of Student Services Heather Rakowitz, Director of Finance 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 Joe Turner, Maintenance 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, Fiber Department Chair Gregory Alan Johnson, Faculty and Studio Manager Victor Pagona, Photography Department Chair Jillian Palone, Metals Faculty and Studio Manager Gary Schott, Metals Department Chair Dennis W. Smith, Ceramics Department Chair Ryan Takaba, Ceramics Faculty and Studio Manager Vincent Valdez, Drawing and Painting Department Chair Beck Whitehead, Paper and Book Arts Department Chair