About the Department

In the Department of Art and Design at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, your courses are not only educational, but also prepare you to enter your career in art. We offer majors in areas including visual communication and design, drawing, painting, glass, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, photography, illustration, and art education. Here, you have many extra opportunities to gain a richer educational experience, from visiting artists and gallery shows to workshops and national competitions, to extra-curricular art clubs and working with clients in the community.

The Art Department at UNK is ever-changing with popular culture while still staying true to classical artists. You’ll find your home here as a student, and an enriching life as a professional in the arts. Our faculty will help you hone your skills and find your niche as an artist and member of the UNK Art Department. 

Undergraduate Degrees

Minors

Graduate Degrees

Meet the Faculty
Sam Senff
"I did not know at the time that ceramics was what I wanted to do, but changing to a studio major just felt right. I immediately fell in love with the material and knew it was the right choice. UNK’s Art Program has prepared me very well for what I hope to accomplish after graduation. The program has helped me develop artistically and as a person in general. It has offered me opportunities that have been tremendously beneficial."

Sam Senff

Studio Art Comprehensive - Ceramics Emphasis

Beyond the Classroom

At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, you have opportunities to enhance your education in clubs, organizations, art shows, and more. With opportunities to participate in national conferences and shows, the University of Nebraska at Kearney's Art students are a step above the rest. With multiple ways to get involved, students can develop the skills needed for their future careers. The UNK Art Department also gives students options for financial aid, internships, and independent studies. 

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Experiential Learning

  • Senior Exhibition All seniors must hold a senior exhibition providing them each with real world experience. All exhibitions are open to the public and have a reception.
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Student Organizations

  • AIGA Nebraska, Student Chapter at UNK The American Institution of Graphic Arts is a national non profit organization that promotes excellence in graphic design.
  • DPI Graphics Studio DPI graphics is a student operated, non-profit design studio with a goal of furnishing quality artwork to its clients while providing students with experience in a design studio, printed material, motion graphic and web design for their portfolio.
  • Art Society The Art Society hosts or co-sponsors visiting artist, various workshops, and lectures, conferences, and seminars.
  • UNKlay This ceramic club provides ceramic students an opportunity to discuss concepts of pottery and how to promote the Fine Arts through ceramics.
  • Glass and Sculpture The Glass & Sculpture Club provides students with support in their individual creative research through a visiting artist program, field trips, and participation in the International Sculpture Center and Glass Arts Society.
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Specialty Facilities

  • Walker Art Gallery The public is welcome to visit the gallery exhibitions. Walker Gallery is located in the Fine Arts Building. The Gallery is adjacent to Art Dept. Office (room 301). Location maps. Gallery Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (except University holiday dates).
  • Glass Blowing Studio
  • MONA The Museum of Nebraska Art is home to visual art that appeals to all audiences. MONA collects and preserves the work of Nebraskas artists that have lived, trained, or worked in the state to create artwork that reflects it's natural beauty.