Fibers Studio Discipline
Our curriculum includes a multicultural history of textiles, contemporary fiber artists, and the integration of traditional techniques with digital media. Students will develop an understanding and appreciation of fibers and its visual language, while learning its traditional processes and contemporary applications.
Fibers is a broad based medium that uses methods of making that include surface design (various direct & resist dye techniques, hand & screen-print, etc.), weaving, cloth construction, quilting, stitching, wearable art, basketry, sculpture, felting, beading and installation, utilizing both natural and man-made fibers.
Cross-disciplinary work within other studio disciplines and media is encouraged, while students develop individual creative direction focused on the qualities inherent in the history and materiality of fibers. Our program prepares students to be creative makers and critical thinkers. Similar to the breadth of the medium, itself, the potential career path is also broad.
First Year Program
We don’t expect our new students to figure out college life on their own. Our First Year Program is designed to help new students. In addition to specific coursework carefully chosen to foster success, we connect students to the many resources and opportunities found within a research university. Plus, we surround students with individualized support as they dive deeper into their program and find their way.
Galleries & Exhibitions
Our art and design programs host many galleries and exhibitions both on campus and throughout the community. Our campus is home to four permanent art galleries, each with its own unique mission. All of them are free, open to the public and accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Milwaukee is also home to dozens of galleries and museums. All students in an Art & Design degree program receive a free annual membership to the Milwaukee Art Museum (MAM). That means you can visit MAM and its events, including the popular MAM After Dark series, free of charge while you are a student.
Art & Design Programs
Art & Design studio disciplines are connected to a variety of academic programs, including majors, minors, certificates and graduate programs. This is a full list of all programs offered by the Department of Art & Design.












Faculty
Which faculty you have within this program is dependent upon your chosen courses or interests. For a list of all Art & Design faculty and staff please follow the link below.
Undergraduate Scholarship Priority Applications
Fall: December 15
Graduate Applications
Fall: January 25
Those eligible for the Advanced Opportunity Program Fellowship (AOP) should apply by December 10.
Undergraduate Programs
Katie Martin-Meurer, art-admission@uwm.edu
Graduate Programs
Jessica Meuninck Ganger, art-grad-admission@uwm.edu
General Info & Questions
Contact Form | 414-229-4763