A new Bachelor of Arts degree in West Virginia University’s School of Art & Design will blend studio art training with psychology and counseling skills, giving graduates the foundations to pursue careers in the growing field of art therapy.

“Art therapy is a mental health profession that combines creative art making with human service skills,” said Dr. Annie McFarland, assistant professor of art education. “Art therapy can be used to target specific therapeutic goals, promote healing and improve overall mental health and wellness.”

State-of-the-art tools and increasingly sophisticated laboratory procedures have made the science behind art and its conservation a fine art itself. 

For West Virginia University Technical Art History students, the on-campus opportunity for hands-on learning and a disciplined approach to scientific methods gives them the advanced skills needed to hit the ground running after graduation.

The West Virginia University College of Creative Arts welcomes Mary Esposito to the staff as assistant director of development.

Esposito brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team from her nine years of employment at the WVU Foundation, where she oversaw annual giving programs including WVU Day of Giving, Women of WVU and Gold Blue and You Faculty and Staff Campus Campaign. She also worked with units all across campus on their annual giving solicitations – including the College of Creative Arts.

When thinking of careers options for those pursuing creative arts, minds do not typically wander to the military. But opportunities in the arts are available for those enlisted, from communications and graphic design to military bands.

“Artistic individuals are needed in all parts of society,” said Dean Keith Jackson. 

A new program in the West Virginia University College of Creative Arts will bring students together with successful alumni and friends of the university for one-on-one mentorship and career guidance.

Creative Consultants is a professional mentorship initiative that, through a competitive application process, matches outstanding College of Creative Arts students with extraordinary professionals in the fields of art and design, music, theatre, dance, and arts education, administration and industry. 

The West Virginia University College of Creative Arts has selected its annual faculty awards.

Each year, the college awards for Excellence in Research and Creative Activity; Outstanding Teacher; Outstanding Service; and Adjunct Faculty Excellence.