More About Fibers

Fibers Department Mission
Our mission is to prepare students for lifelong skills and creativity in the fiber arts through intense training, close interaction with faculty, resident artists and visiting artists, and access to excellent facilities.

Students are challenged to experiment with materials and concepts emphasizing the understanding and exploration of fiber as an expressive material.

Students develop technical skill and a personal aesthetic culminating in a senior thesis exhibition of their work.

Bachelor of Fine Arts & Craft Certificate
The fibers Bachelor of Fine Arts degree concentration in Surface Design and Weaving teaches students traditional techniques applied to contemporary design aesthetics.

Students begin with an introductory class covering basic print and dye methods, floor loom weaving, and studio safety.

Intermediate classes in weaving and surface design provide more in-depth studies in weave structures/designs, hand printing, discharge and other dye processed on a variety of natural fabrics. Advanced surface design explores methods of repeat pattern screen printing. Advanced weaving emphasizes more conceptual approaches to traditional weave structures.

Special problems classes and independent study
options, plus evening and weekend courses offer students increased opportunities for exploration of fibers processes including: natural dyeing, spinning, flat and three-dimensional felting, devore, chemical resist, bookmaking, cyanotype, and shibori resist techniques.

Students receive individual attention and direction while working closely with the faculty. Students also have access to week-long, intensive workshops that can be taken as non-credit classes or for college credit during the summer.