Art Academy of Cincinnati

Art Academy of Cincinnati
Motto "Make Art, Make a Difference"
Established 1869
Type Private college of art, design and art history
President David Johnson
Dean Dr. Catherine Hardy
Undergraduates 193
Postgraduates 21
Location Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
Campus Urban
Colors Orange and Prussian Blue
Mascot Stinker, the Skunk Soccer mascot
Website http://www.artacademy.edu

The Art Academy of Cincinnati is a private college of art and design, accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, in Cincinnati, Ohio. It was originally founded as the McMicken School of Design in 1869, and was a department of the University of Cincinnati, and later in 1887, became the Art Academy of Cincinnati, the museum school of the Cincinnati Art Museum. In 1998, the Art Academy of Cincinnati legally separated from the museum and became an independent college of art and design. It currently offers four undergraduate degrees: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fine Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art History, and an Associate of Science in Graphic Design. It also offers a Master of Arts in Art Education, which is taught during summer semesters.

The curriculum of the Art Academy is considered among the best of BFA programs in the nation. It is unique in that it trains artists to be self-directed contemporary visual artists and designers. Students work closely with faculty members who themselves are professional contemporary artists (faculty to student ratio is 10:1). Students develop personal voice and vision in the studio while being well disciplined in Art History and academic coursework. Its educational experiences prepares students for the best in life and career choices.

The Art Academy moved into its current facility at 1212 Jackson St. in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood in August 2005. This move has been pivotal in the Over-the-Rhine revitalization and renovation as an arts district. The new facility provides 24-hour access for students with around the clock security. Students are guaranteed studio spaces in Junior and Senior years. The 12th and Jackson St. building also features an open air atrium, connecting two formerly separate buildings, enlarged classroom spaces, computer labs, a student commons area, lecture hall, and Learning Services Center. In 2008, the Art Academy facility received Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) Green Building certification by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

Dormitory suites are required for out-of-town Art Academy freshmen at the Academy Housing Facility at the nearby corner of 12th and Vine streets. Spaces are also available to local freshmen. Twelve suites for 28 students are available each with fully equipped kitchens and with washer/dryer. A Resident Advisor is also available and lives on the premises. The Academy continues to maintain its River City Works sculpture/glass blowing facility, and has recently purchased the building next door on 12th St. with intentions to expand in the future.

Famous Graduates and Faculty

Galleries

The college features three public galleries that offer changing art exhibitions, the Pearlman Gallery, the Chidlaw Gallery and the Convergys Gallery. Exhibitions include emerging and professional artists, students, faculty and alumni artists.

External links