Our Fine Arts Program offers a dynamic and immersive environment for students to cultivate their artistic talents and intellectual capabilities, while also preparing them for a variety of modern fine arts and arts adjacent careers. Our curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education that combines intensive studio work with a strong foundation in art history and liberal arts. Students have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as Ceramics & Sculpture, Digital Media, Drawing & Painting, and Mixed Media, allowing them to develop a diverse set of skills that are highly relevant to contemporary art practices. Additionally, we also offer minors in Art, Graphic Design, and Film Studies, providing students with the flexibility to explore related fields and expand their career options. This emphasis on real-world experience ensures that our graduates are well-prepared to pursue successful careers in the studio, design lab, art gallery, and beyond.
Program Highlights
Senior Thesis
The year-long Senior Thesis capstone for our BFA program offers students an exceptional opportunity to culminate their undergraduate experience with a substantial and innovative body of work.
Studio Spaces
Our campus takes pride in its diverse array of studio spaces, tailored to meet the artistic and creative needs of our students.
Internships
We are dedicated to providing our students with a wide range of exceptional experiential learning opportunities through our innovative internship program.
Art Club
The Art Club is a student-governed organization that aims to provide a dynamic and inclusive platform for aspiring artists to come together, express their creativity, and engage in artistic activities.
Campus Collections
The University of Maine Presque Isle’s art collections provide Fine Art students with an invaluable resource for inspiration, learning, and exposure.
Gallery Spaces
The University boasts two distinguished gallery spaces on its campus: The Reed Art Gallery and the Pullen Gallery. The Reed Art Gallery has served as a bastion of artistic variety, featuring a wide array of works from both nationally and regionally recognized artists, as well as contributions from students and the local arts community.
EXPECT generous scholarships
Senior Thesis
The year-long Senior Thesis capstone for our BFA program provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to culminate their undergraduate experience with a significant and original body of work. This capstone experience allows students to engage in in-depth research, critical analysis, and creative exploration within their chosen concentration. Throughout the year, students will work closely with faculty mentors to develop and execute a substantial project that demonstrates their artistic vision, technical expertise, and conceptual rigor. The thesis process will also include regular critiques, presentation of research, and opportunities for peer feedback, fostering a rich environment for intellectual and artistic exchange. By undertaking this capstone experience, students will not only deepen their understanding of their chosen discipline–an experience many students do not experience until Graduate School– but also develop essential skills in project management, research, promotion, and communication. Ultimately, the senior thesis will serve as a testament to each student’s growth and achievement as they transition from their undergraduate studies to the professional world or graduate education.
Studio Spaces
Our campus is proud to offer a diverse range of studio spaces that cater to the artistic and creative needs of our students. Our computer design labs provide state-of-the-art technology and software for digital design and digital media projects. The ceramics and sculpture studio offers ample space and resources for students to explore their three-dimensional artistic visions. Additionally, our life drawing and painting spaces provide a tranquil and inspiring environment for students to hone their skills in traditional art forms. As part of our commitment to supporting the artistic growth of our senior students, we also offer dedicated studio spaces that provide a semi-private and focused environment for their creative work. These spaces are equipped with the necessary tools and facilities to facilitate independent and collaborative projects, allowing our students to flourish as emerging artists. We believe that our studio spaces are essential components of our campus community, fostering creativity, innovation, and artistic excellence.
EXPECT an education tailored to your needs
Internships
We are dedicated to providing our students with exceptional experiential learning opportunities in the field, including a wide range of paid and unpaid internship opportunities. Our program offers students the chance to gain real-world experience in classroom settings, non-profit organizations, and various community-based initiatives. These internships provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in practical settings, while also making meaningful contributions to the community. Our students have had the opportunity to engage in a diverse range of internship activities, including assisting with introductory classes, contributing to local events, and creating public murals, among other valuable experiences. Through these internships, our students can develop essential professional skills, build valuable networks, and gain a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study. We are committed to providing our students with the tools and experiences they need to succeed in their future careers, and our robust internship program is a key component of that commitment.
Art Club
Our student-governed Art club provides a dynamic and inclusive platform for aspiring artists to come together, express their creativity, and engage in a wide range of artistic activities. With a focus on fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, our club offers members the opportunity to participate in various art-related events, workshops, and exhibitions. Through our student-led approach, members have the chance to take on leadership roles, plan and organize their own projects, and contribute to the vibrant artistic community on campus. Whether you are an experienced artist or just starting to explore your creative side, our Art club welcomes all levels of skill and aims to inspire a lifelong passion for the arts. Join us and become part of a vibrant and passionate community of artists who are dedicated to celebrating and promoting creativity in all its forms!
Campus Collections
For Fine Art students, the University of Maine Presque Isle’s art collections offer an invaluable resource for inspiration, learning, and exposure. Collections pieces adorn our halls, classrooms, offices, and gallery spaces. Students have the opportunity to view works by nationally and regionally known artists and to not only broaden artistic horizons but also allows them to gain insight into the professional art world. Some recognizable names that students may see in the halls, and gallery shows include Andy Warhol, Alberto Giacometti, Bernard Langlais, and more!
Gallery Spaces
The University has two gallery spaces on campus: The Reed Art Gallery, and the Pullen Gallery. The Reed Art Gallery is a treasure trove of artistic variety, showcasing a wide range of art since its opening in 1992. From nationally and regionally known artists to students and the local arts community, the gallery is a testament to the wealth of creativity in our midst. In recent years, the Reed has had the honor of collaborating with Canon USA’s Explorer of Light Program, bringing nationally known artists Joyce Tenneson and John Paul Caponigro to the area. Furthermore, it is one of only three University galleries in Maine to receive a gift of Andy Warhol prints and photographs from the Andy Warhol Photographic Legacy Program, underscoring its significance in the art world. The gallery also plays a vital role in the community arts scene, participating each month in the Presque Isle First Friday Art Walk. The smaller Pullen Gallery is a wonderful space used for community and student artist exhibits, as well as a screening area, for art lectures and events.
Areas of Emphasis
- Drawing & Painting
- Ceramics & Sculpture
- Photography & Digital Media
- Mixed Media
Learning Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate technical skills in a given medium, through both quality of execution and presentation.
- Students will critically analyze and interpret artworks through formal, historical, and theoretical frameworks.
- Students will develop a strong studio practice and create works that are intellectually challenging for themselves and their audience.
- Students will articulate their creative process through oral and written communication.
- Students will produce effective professional materials and practices particular to the field of art.
Take a Peek at the Studio Facilities
Our program is pleased to offer a wide range of art spaces to our students outfitted with the equipment needed to learn, practice and perfect your artistic skills.
Art Room
This enormous room (it’s the entire east wing of Pullen’s third floor) is divided into several learning spaces and enjoys bountiful natural lighting from the bank of windows on the north side. One quadrant hosts a multi-purpose space with large art tables perfect for a wide range of classes and mixed media projects. Another quadrant features a painting area complete with a crop of easels and (probably) the nicest drying racks you’ve ever seen. Next to that is a traditional drawing area with a circle full of wooden drawing horses, and an enclosed Dark Room. In the last quadrant, there is a faculty office, which houses space to meet individually with students. A special bonus in the room for majors is the series of books set aside for seniors to provide them with a dedicated space as they complete their year-long thesis exhibition course.
Ceramics & Sculpture Lab
A full-service ceramics lab is equipped with all the necessary tools and equipment for creating and finishing ceramic pieces. The lab includes multiple pottery wheels for shaping and molding clay, standing tables to work on hand-building, as well as dedicated glazing stations for applying a variety of finishes to the pieces. In addition, the lab is equipped with two electric kilns for firing smaller projects and a large gas kiln for larger pieces or batch firing. The electric kilns provide consistent and controlled firing temperatures, while the gas kiln offers the capability to reach high temperatures necessary for certain types of ceramics. With these resources, artists, and students can fully explore and develop their ceramic creations from start to finish in a professional and well-equipped environment.
Photo Development
The digital design computer lab is equipped with state-of-the-art PCs, each loaded with the latest version of the Adobe Creative Suite. Students have access to industry-standard software for graphic design, video editing, and web development, allowing them to develop practical skills for their future careers. In addition to the PC lab, the campus also offers a MAC lab for students who prefer to work on Apple devices. Furthermore, there is a media production studio available for film and photography projects, equipped with professional-grade equipment and software. This facility provides students with the opportunity to explore various aspects of media production and gain hands-on experience in a professional setting. The combination of these resources ensures that students have access to the tools and technology they need to excel in the digital design field and produce high-quality creative work.
Storage Spaces
Students have access to ample storage space for their artistic works in progress, with dedicated in-studio spaces provided for storing larger paintings, drawings, and sculptural creations. These in-studio spaces are designed to accommodate the specific needs of art students, allowing them to safely store and work on their larger projects without limitations. Additionally, lockers are available for students to store class materials between classes, ensuring that their personal belongings and essential tools are kept secure and organized. This comprehensive storage solution enables students to focus on their creative process without having to worry about the logistics of toting works-in-progress and bulky materials around campus.
Projects
Our faculty and students work on several projects throughout the year that move outside the classroom and into the public arena. Very often, these projects encourage community involvement or are especially designed as community events.
Empty Bowls
Ceramics classes + hunger and food insecurity issues? It may not seem like a natural match-up, but the UMPI Art Program’s Ceramics students have tackled those very issues with the Empty Bowls events they’ve held in Presque Isle. The basic premise is that the Ceramics students (as well as local ceramicists and high school students) create hand-crafted bowls. Community members then are invited to an event where they can purchase the bowls and enjoy a helping of soup donated by local businesses, with the proceeds benefiting a local soup kitchen.
Transformation of our Admissions Office
What an impressive transformation of the Admissions Office! The recent makeover, orchestrated by Art student and MarCom intern Caleb Lovejoy, has undoubtedly breathed new life into the space. Under the guidance of Rowena McPherson, the graphic design coordinator, Caleb successfully executed a captivating mural using wall vinyl that aligns with our EXPECT the unexpected campaign. His dedication and creativity are truly commendable, and the results speak for themselves. The Admissions Office now exudes a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, thanks to Caleb’s exceptional project as part of his ART 325 Internship. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Caleb for a job well done. This remarkable initiative not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the office but also reflects the innovative spirit of our institution. We look forward to witnessing more of Caleb’s artistic contributions in the future.
Connecting Local Middle School Students with Art
The Fine Art Department successfully hosted a captivating event with Wintergreen Art’s school program, in the Clay Studio. The highlight of the day was the engaging session led by senior student and talented ceramicist, Dylan Ouellette. Dylan expertly guided the students through the intricate process of working with clay, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in wheel throwing. Additionally, the students had the opportunity to broaden their artistic horizons by touring his ceramic show in Reed Gallery. The event not only provided a fun and inspiring experience for the middle school students but also offered valuable insight into the world of fine arts. By fostering creativity and providing a platform for artistic expression, the Fine Art Department continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the arts. We extend our gratitude to Dylan Ouellette for his exceptional mentorship and to the Wintergreen Art middle school students for their enthusiastic participation. Such initiatives are instrumental in shaping a vibrant and dynamic artistic community within our educational institution.
Faculty
Rowena McPherson
- Location
- Suite 232 Preble Hall
- Phone
- (207) 768-9604
- rowena.mcpherson@maine.edu
Heather Nuñez-Olmstead
- Location
- South Hall 310
- Phone
- (207) 768-9544
- heather.nunez@maine.edu
Dylan Ouellette
Other Important Links
EXPECT to Finish in Four
Art Program Offerings
What can you do with a degree in Art?
Next Step: Admissions
We’re so excited that you’re considering the University of Maine at Presque Isle! As a student at UMPI, we want your experience to be anything but ordinary! So what makes UMPI extraordinary? Our Learning Environment, Our Student Engagement and Our Location!
No matter what stage of life you are in, we can help you take the plunge into higher education and put you on YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS!