During
the past four semesters, our enrollment has increased
from 310 to 420 students. This boost, coupled with
retirements of many faculty has dramatically impacted
the Art Department. The blossom of interest in our
Visual Communication program made graphic design the
number one requested major in the College of Arts
and Sciences during the fall 2001 semester. Additionally,
countless K-State students changed their majors to
art in the last year. The demands on space, time and
equipment has risen exponentially. We do not want
to set restrictions on students who want to follow
their creative desires, and a fresh vision and talent
might spring from anywhere, but we are forced to consider
the limitations of our staffing, facilities and budget.
The Concentration Admission Review (CAR), a portfolio
review with a GPA stipulation, was enforced in the
Spring of 2001. The review is a requirement for national
accreditation and allows the programs to pinpoint
the individuals who show real ability and drive, revealed
in their academic and artistic achievements in the
requisite core curriculum. The CAR makes it necessary
for any student interested in declaring a major within
the program, subject to a review process. This aids
in the actual major courses, but meanwhile our foundation
program and beginning studio classes are sorely stressed.
Nonetheless, faculty and students alike are coping
and triumphing with what they can. Student work has
been displayed throughout the semester on our Willard
Hall walls and the expectation of the CAR has stimulated
many students to go above and beyond in their foundation
work, so as to promote every opportunity for their
review portfolio. Improvements made in every area
have made K-State a real contender in the Midwest
when it comes to art. The high number of students
we now accommodate places greater stress on equipment.
Kansas educational cats have affected ready money
to make repairs or improve in every area. We face
a challenging time. But our outstanding students,
faculty and alumni are the silver lining, constituting
the pride we have in the visual arts at K-State.
