Art Program
Located in an idyllic woodland setting, but only a short hop away from the art centers of Philadelphia, Washington and New York, the Art Program at Penn State Abington is a place where aspiring artists create and connect.
The intimate scale of a small school teams up with the resources and prestige of a major public university… all combined with the affordability of the Penn State Commonwealth Campus system and a commitment to the ideals and values of liberal arts education.
The program combines traditional and cutting-edge approaches to making art in the studio while developing critical, cultural, and communication skills in a liberal arts context. This prepares Abington art majors for professional careers or continuing graduate study in fine art, graphic design, industrial design, architecture, fashion, and other visual disciplines.
Creativity abounds in studios dedicated to a wide range of media. Students work closely with a professional faculty who maintain active art practices. Complementing a strong general studio foundation, Abington art majors choose from among five media concentrations to focus their skills:
Beyond the studio, Abington art majors have many opportunities to connect: professional internships with artists and cultural institutions, critiques with visiting artists, collaboration on undergraduate research projects, designing and creating publications, field trips to regional museums and galleries, study abroad options in Italy, Spain, and Ireland… all in the most affordable Bachelor of Arts in Art degree offered in the region.
To find out more, explore our links or contact Dr. Karen Weekes, 215-881-7656.
Program Features & Events
Visiting Artists - like Faith Ringgold, Thomas Lucas and Emily Steinberg give lectures, teach special courses, and give workshops.
Study Abroad - Study abroad programs give students opportunity to both see and create artworks in Italy, Spain and Ireland.
Exhibitions - students, faculty, visiting artists and alumni exhibit throughout the year, in venues including the Woodland Gallery and the Abington Art Center.
Publications - Art students publish ACURA undergraduate research and in special publications such as Pulling Teeth (a graphic novel created in an interdisciplinary course) and the Abington Review, PSA’s literary annual.
Internships & Partnerships - partnerships and internships with cultural institutions like Abington Art Center, design studios like Galbraith and Paul Fabric Design, fine artists like Sarah McEneany and others enhance the artist’s education experience.
