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The CMU Art and Design Department prides itself on maintaining high standards and pushing students to meet those standards in their artwork. Studio Artists are expected to complete and pass a formal review of their artwork before being admitted into the program.

Every student who is a sophomore in academic standing, or a transfer student with 60 credits or more (including students transferring into a Studio Art concentration from K-12 teaching, Graphic Design, Animation, or Art History) must satisfy the following requirements:

1. Completion of ARTE 294 Sophomore Seminar with a grade of "B" or better.

2. Submission of the Studio Art Admission form and its accompanying documents.
3. Completion of ARTE 101, 102, 118, 119 and ARTS 151, 152 with a grade of "B" or better.
4. Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher in all 200-, 300- and 400-level Studio Art major courses.

5. Completion of all 200-, 300-, and 400-level Studio Art major courses with a grade of "C" or better.
6. Successful completion of Art entrance exam with a minimum score of 80%.
7. Portfolio Review of 10-20 pieces that show competency with the following fundamental skills: a) Composition and the use of the picture frame, plane and visual balance; b) Positive and negative space; c) 1, 2 and 3 point perspective; d) Light and value; e) Basic knowledge of the human figure and portraiture.

Application Process for the Studio Art Sophomore Review

1. Complete the Sophomore Review Application Form and turn it in to your Studio Art advisor.
2. Attach a copy of your unofficial CMU transcripts to your Application Form.
3. Attach a Letter of Artistic Intent.

The Fall Semester Sophomore Review for Studio Art majors is usually held on the first Friday of December.

The Spring Semester Sophomore Review for Studio Art majors is usually held on the first Friday of May.

To schedule a Sophomore Review, contact your Art and Design Department faculty advisor.

The Sophomore Review Application Form, copies of your unofficial CMU transcripts, and your Letter of Artistic Intent are all due by the third Friday of November for the Fall review or by the third Friday of April for the Spring review.

FAQ

What should students bring to their review?

After you have scheduled your Sophomore Review, plan to bring 10-20 pieces of artwork that show competency with the following fundamental skills: a) Composition and the use of the picture frame, plane and visual balance; b) Positive and negative space; c) 1, 2 and 3 point perspective; d) Light and value; e) Basic knowledge of the human figure and portraiture.

How long will each review last?

The individual reviews will be with members of the studio art faculty and will last approximately 15 minutes.

What should I put in my Letter of Artistic Intent?

In your letter you should express yourself as clearly and professionally as possible. The letter should address the following:
1. The intended creative direction that you wish to take in your final two years of school based on your artistic strengths in sculpture, ceramics, painting, prints, etc.
2. The subject matter that inspires you the most and that you are excited to explore in independent projects.
3. You must elaborate on a direct connection between artistic and historical references and your personal artistic direction.

I have enough credit hours to be classified as a junior/senior. Do I need to complete a Sophomore Review?

Yes. The Sophomore Review is a formal review of artwork that is required of all students entering into the Studio Art program.

Forms & Examples

PDF of Sophomore Review Application Form
Sample Letter of Artistic Intent