Immerse yourself in a world of boundless creativity.

The Art Department at Westfield State University is dedicated to fostering a community of visionary artists, designers, and innovators eager to explore the various dimensions of visual communication and cultural expression. Our dynamic range of art majors and art minors will ignite your passion and refine your skills for a vibrant career in the visual arts.

Portfolio Review

In addition to submitting a completed application for admission to the Art Department, the Art Department encourages all prospective art majors to submit a digital art portfolio for review by the department’s faculty as part of the admission process to our art programs. While this portfolio review is not a mandatory requirement for acceptance, it is highly recommended if you have a portfolio to submit. By reviewing your work, we can better understand your artistic abilities and help you make informed decisions about your future educational plans at the University.

A formal portfolio review of your artwork will take place at the end of your sophomore fall semester. This portfolio review serves as an opportunity for you to receive guidance on your future academic pursuits and assess whether you possess the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the upper-level courses offered by the Art Department.

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  • 7

    art major concentrations and 5 art minor options

  • Art

    internship opportunities on- and off-campus

  • Study

    abroad across the U.S. or around the world

Expert guidance from compassionate creatives.

The Art Department is led by master’s-educated faculty who are professional practitioners in their fields of study. With small classes and personalized mentorship, you’ll learn from their unique perspectives as you develop your own point of view as an artist. The one-on-one support you’ll receive will help you increase your understanding of art, polish your technical skills, and grow as a creative professional. 

A professor and student review the student’s sketches while seated in an art classroom.

Get student support from start to finish.

Experience comprehensive support at the Center for Student Success. Whether you're navigating the college transition, seeking academic advice, honing study strategies, or accessing various resources, our dedicated programs are ready to assist you.

Join our vibrant community of artists. 

As an art major or art minor, you’ll be welcomed into our thriving collective of creatives. Explore your artistic voice in the RIDE Center, on-campus graphic design lab, and painting, ceramics, sculpture, drawing, design, and printmaking studios. Our talented professors provide applied learning experiences through trips to regional museums and galleries, while also facilitating presentations and workshops with visiting artists. Throughout your studies, you’ll receive the inspiration and mentorship you need to thrive in your professional pursuits as an artist. 

A student holds up a painting of oranges and a color wheel while standing in front of shelves holding many sculptures and other artwork-in-process.

Please reach out with any questions you have about the Art Department. We are happy to connect with you one-on-one.

David Shapleigh, Chair of Westfield State University’s Art Department, smiles while posing for a portrait photo.

Contact Us

David Shapleigh
Chair – Art Department 
Dower 108

Request Information

We’re here to answer your questions and deliver the support you need along your academic journey. Please provide your contact information and area of interest and we’ll be in touch shortly.

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Art Department