When you think about your future, do you see yourself in a studio, working on a painting or sculpture? Or perhaps in a classroom, delivering a lecture on the history of Renaissance art? Maybe behind the scenes at a gallery, curating an exhibit of contemporary multimedia artwork?

Whether you’re planning a serious career in art or art scholarship, or just want to expand your knowledge of the visual world, the Department of Art has a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that encompasses a wide variety of artistic pursuits and interests.

We offer two majors: studio art and art history. Both are grounded in the development of creative and critical skills. A minor in Art and Art History is offered for non-majors. Our state-of-the-art facilities include the Fields Center for the Visual Arts, which features student gallery space, painting and drawing studios, a foundations studio, a darkroom, ceramics and sculpture studios, a lecture room, and a computer lab.

Portland is home to a dynamic and growing art scene. Lewis & Clark students visit exhibitions (and show their own work) at local art galleries and frequently visit the Portland Art Museum, the largest art museum on the West Coast. The Department of Art's regular lecture series brings professional artists from the community into conversation with our students. From established painters to up-and-coming sculptors, our guest speakers give students a window into the life and work of practicing artists.