Viewpoint; View from the Field »
By Jennifer Rospert, Professor of Art, Drawing »
All my work begins with drawings. ~ ELLSWORTH KELLY
Drawing Suite vertical filing area
Ideally situated among the various workspaces within the Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts (WCFPA), the drawing studios are a focal point of activity for students pursuing degrees in studio arts. Contemporary drawing practices studied here are appropriately examined at various academic levels, beginning with the inception of creative production in the first-year (foundations) courses, through to individualized research projects in upper-level courses. Drawing courses are also populated by art minors and non-majors seeking an introduction to studio arts. The act(s) of drawing may arguably contain the most wide ranging possibilities of creative output, not limited to studio arts but utilized throughout history as a crucial tool for brainstorming, planning, and problem solving. Simply, the drawing suite is (perhaps) a metaphorical beginning of a great variety of creative acts by our students.
Drawing Suite studio area
The Drawing Suite includes two large studios, connected by a smaller storage room that houses flat files, large paper rolls, industrial shelving, tools and a large collection of objects used for still life and maquette arrangements. Primarily used for introductory drawing and upper level drawing courses, room 119 is an uncluttered open space outfitted with easels and an expansive critique wall that is conducive to large scale drawing works in various 2D media. Its sister room, 115, is ideal for various works requiring flat tables and a generous amount of natural light. The flexibility of the two spaces allows for a wide range of 2D work, and will be an ideal hub for the new BFA emphasis option in Drawing and Illustration (anticipated Fall 2023).
Drawing Suite studio area
I am looking forward to upcoming semesters and the possibilities with enormous enthusiasm. For now, I am confident that the Drawing Suite will intrigue our students to embrace the nebulous and exciting path of transforming their ideas into art.
You’ve got to bumble forward into the unknown. ~ FRANK GEHRY
Drawing Suite studio room with a view
