Photography & Imaging Studio Discipline
Students interested in a photography degree can choose the Photography & Imaging focus as part of the Studio Art BFA program. Our curriculum emphasizes a conceptual fine art practice through the production of darkroom, digital, and hybrid work. Courses integrate socially situated projects with an understanding of both contemporary and historical visual culture by developing a vocabulary for effective communication within the photographic medium.
In addition to black & white darkroom and digital color photography, students explore a variety of photographic practices, including large format, studio lighting, alternative processes, and digital imaging. Photography’s paradoxical role as both evidence of the real and window into a manipulated world allows for the recontextualization of cultural, ethical, economic, aesthetic, and psychological themes.
Students address the impact of an image-mediated world through performances for the camera and straight documentation, by connecting formal and aesthetic elements to larger theoretical issues, as they establish an authentic sense of self as artists.
Courses focus on developing technical and conceptual aspects of the medium, while emphasizing the photograph’s potential to engage meaningfully with ideas and society. Our photography degree studio also encourages the exploration and redefinition of the role of photography within a contemporary fine art context, allowing for experimentation with image appropriation, presentation, and installation, as well as the creation of interdisciplinary collaborations among students, faculty, and the community.
Equipment Room
We believe that a solid foundation in technical expertise, coupled with your unique artistic vision, will pave the way for success in your creative endeavors. Our equipment room provides you with the tools necessary to bring your ideas to life.
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.
- Associate Professor, Photography & Imaging
- Co-Chair, Department of Art & Design
- Area Head, Photography & Imaging
- mougel@uwm.edu
- 414-251-6296
- Mitchell Hall B84
Undergraduate Application
December 15 – Priority admission and scholarship deadline.
Graduate Application
December 10 – Priority admission and financial support deadline.
February 1 – Application deadline.
Undergraduate Programs
Katie Martin-Meurer, art-admission@uwm.edu
Graduate Programs
Nicole Ridgway, ridgwayn@uwm.edu
General Info & Questions
Contact Form | 414-229-4763