Art History

The Art History major provides a foundation for any type of career that requires a strong and developed ability to read and write, identify and solve problems, and think critically. Faculty are teacher-scholars engaged in research and professional activities. We work closely with students on student-initiated research topics and invite students to join us on our research. University resources in Simpson Library include strong holdings in Art History and related disciplines as well as subscriptions to Jstor, Artstor, and other databases to support opportunities for expansive and exciting learning. Department and University resources also include scholarships and grants that allow students to conduct on-site research to look at and study art; grants have allowed our students to travel throughout the US as well as Mexico, African nations, and European countries on research.

Proximity to Washington, D.C., Richmond, Baltimore, and New York City, gives students first-hand experiences of art works. Visiting scholars and artists offer students important networking opportunities, as well as lectures on recent developments in the field. In addition, UMW Galleries bring exciting exhibitions and events to campus while advancing the educational goals of the University through the collection, exhibition, and interpretation of works of art. Students may intern with UMW Galleries as well as the University’s Belmont, Gari Melchers Home and Studio, and the James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library to gain experience as catalogers, researchers, administrative assistants, and exhibition installers. Internships allow our students to gain valuable experience and career contacts by working in museums and art institutions not only in Fredericksburg, but in Washington, D.C., Richmond, and beyond. Many of our students have gone on for graduate study in Art History at major institutions and are now employed by museums, galleries, cultural centers, and universities. Others have gone into library science, law, art therapy, publishing, retail design, and business. Our alumnae/i are generous supporters to our program and mentors to current majors.


On This Site

Here are some resources that you’ll find on this website:

You can also check out information on our studio art program.


Contact

For all general department business, please contact:

Katina Taylor

Office Manager, Department of Art and Art History
kfauntle@umw.edu
(540) 654-2038