Pursue your passion with a painting minor

UW’s minor in painting is designed for non-studio art majors to get an in-depth art education and advanced painting experience.

All painting minor students take four foundational courses in drawing, color theory and painting. Students may then choose from a variety of advanced electives. Options include all levels of watercolor, illustration, art history and oil painting courses. 

About the Painting Minor

Artists need time, space, and encouragement to refine their craft. That’s why UW provides students with advanced painting courses, supportive faculty and state-of-the art studio space.

Painting students are encouraged to join UW’s Student Art League, where they may display their art during annual exhibitions and get to know other students with similar interests.

The painting minor is designed for non-studio art majors. In our program, minor students get a focused education in various painting techniques, including oil painting, watercolor, drawing and illustration. Our students graduate ready to take on leadership roles in the art world and pursue their dream careers.

A student smiles for a photo while seated in an art class
Paint brushes and paints on a table

 

Students pursuing a B.A. in Art History may minor in a studio discipline. However, students pursuing a B.A. or B.F.A. in Studio Art or a B.A. in Art Education cannot minor in a specific studio discipline such as painting.

Students should plan on a minimum of five semesters to complete a painting minor due to upper-division course prerequisites.

Please note that all painting courses require a minimum grade of C to earn a minor.

A student poses for a picture next to their painting on a canvas

What can you do with a Painting Minor?

 

Painting Careers

Students who graduate with a painting minor are prepared for various painting and visual arts careers, including but not limited to:

  • Fine artist
  • Illustrator
  • Drawing instructor
  • Portrait artist
  • Live painter
  • Museum curator
  • Art teacher
  • Graphic designer

 

Student smiles for photo with their painting on an easel in the background

Where UW Fine Art and Art Education Grads Are Making An Impact

  • Houston Center for Contemporary Craft
  • University of Wyoming
  • Western Confluence Magazine
  • Stripe
  • Self-employed
  • Glassell School of Art
  • Art League Houston
  • Cherry Creek School District
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Painting Minor Highlights

UW’s art program prepares students to become leaders in the art world. Here are a few highlights to look forward to as part of our program. 

Student Art League

All art students are encouraged to join UW’s Student Art League. This student organization connects like-minded students who are passionate about art. Students meet weekly and participate in group learning sessions in addition to hosting annual events including art auctions and exhibitions.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

UW’s state-of-the-art Visual Arts Building is at the heart of our art program. In addition to lecture halls, students have access to gallery space and studios. One of the highlights of our facility is the abundance of naturally-lit workspaces featuring mountain views.

 

 

Notable Faculty

The University of Wyoming’s drawing program is led by Ricki Klages, a highly accomplished artist and professor. In addition to her roles as artist and professor, Ricki served as the Department Head of UW’s Art and Art History program for 15 years.  Ricki has exhibited both nationally and internationally, with solo exhibitions across the United States and Europe including Denmark, Portugal, England and Italy. She has received many awards in juried exhibitions, including the jurors' choice award from The Butler Institute of American Art, Baer Award in Painting from the Wyoming Arts Council and two Wyoming Arts Council Fellowship Grants.

 

 

 


Contact Us

We're Eager to Help!

Department of Visual Arts

Visual Arts Building, Room 110

Department 3138, 1000 E. University Avenue

Laramie, WY 82071

Phone: (307) 766-3269

Email: visualarts@uwyo.edu