School of Visual and Performing Arts

The mission of the School of Visual and Performing Arts is to provide students with historical and aesthetic knowledge, perceptual and conceptual abilities, technical skills, and humanistic perspectives necessary for a successful career as a professional in the art and design fields. Deeply woven within this philosophy is the concept of applied learning, linking studio experience with practical application.

Programs in Art and Design include the Bachelor of Science in Interior Design, with the option of completing a concentration in Sustainable Design; the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communications, with concentrations in Graphic Design and Photography; and the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fine Art, with concentrations in Creative Arts Therapy and Studio Art. Performing Arts options include; private voice, acting, and instrument instruction, music and theatre studio and history courses, instrumental and vocal ensembles, club activities, and connections to world-class professional theatre.

All the programs of study integrate theory, practice and history so students can respond to the rapidly changing demands within arts professions. The process begins with Foundation courses that introduce students to an art-intensive experience, immersing them in drawing, 2-D design, and art history. Each program also requires students to take at least four courses within their major the first year. The Foundation curriculum investigates the methods, materials, and techniques common to most art and design fields. It ensures that all students progress to their second year with the skills and comprehension necessary for discipline-specific studies.

Art and Design students are encouraged to participate in exhibitions and publish their work. Several exhibitions a year provide students the occasion to display work in the Carol Grillo Art Gallery, while the Endicott Review publishes student art, design, photography, and creative writing. Special presentations and exhibitions by visiting artists and faculty provide possibilities for first-hand viewing and analysis of contemporary art and an exchange of ideas, techniques, and perspectives. The Student Invitational Art Exhibit highlights work from every studio course offered by Art and Design and culminates with awards and purchases.

With the important roles history and multiculturalism have in the development of future artists and designers, Endicott students are encouraged to consider studying one semester abroad. Opportunities to study in Florence, Madrid, and Mexico City are available, with several additional worldwide programs possible under special circumstances.

Practical, on-site work experiences are especially important for artists and designers. The Internship program at Endicott provides all students with three opportunities to work in professional circumstances. Upon graduation, Art and Design students may have a résumé that exceeds that of some professionals, with corresponding recommendations from industry professionals. Additional professional practices are stressed in the Portfolio courses.

Along with the visual arts, Endicott students have opportunities to explore their interests in music and theatre. The School of Visual and Performing Arts sponsors the Jazz Band, the Endicott Singers, and the Chamber Ensemble; and maintains special relationships with the Boston Children’s Theatre, Symphony by the Sea, and the Drumming Circle.

Submitting a Portfolio

All students majoring in one of the Art and Design programs are required to submit a portfolio of their artwork for review by the School of Visual and Performing Arts. The portfolio evaluation will augment the Admissions Application. The portfolio should include the following:

20 samples of your artwork as jpegs on a CD (do not send originals). Examples in various media are encouraged, such as drawing, ceramics, photography, drafting or graphics; rather than a concentration of images in one medium or discipline.
One application-specific portfolio assignment. Choose one of the following:
- The Center of the Universe, in any medium, or
- Self-portrait in any medium.
  Please do not call the College for guidance regarding this application-specific assignment, as it will be used to assess your creative thinking and problem - solving abilities.
Checklist description of artwork including medium, title, size, date, and software, if applicable.
One-page statement that includes in the following order:
- Which degree, major and concentration you are applying for,
- Why you want to study art and design at Endicott College,
- What led to your interest in the visual and creative media.

This statement is in addition to, not in place of, the Admissions Application essay.

CD and materials will not be returned.

Send materials by January 15 to: Portfolio Review, School of Visual and Performing Arts, Endicott College, 376 Hale Street, Beverly, MA 01915

Upon receipt of the portfolio, the Dean, Department Chair, and appropriate faculty will review the work. The evaluation will then be sent to the Admission Office as a supplemental assessment tool.