Message from the Head of Department

The Department of Visual Arts offers students a vibrant environment where they can study various aspects of the visual image and visual culture, from their creation to the way in which they are interpreted and used by society. The Department offers two professional degrees, namely in BA Fine Arts and BA Information Design, as well as the BA (Visual Studies) that focuses on visual culture.

The Department helps students equip themselves with the skills they need to enter the competitive workplace by providing them with a first-rate education. The postgraduate component is as important as the undergraduate studies and all degrees offered by the Department go up to doctoral level. The department has a strong focus on research and has two NRF-rated staff members.

The core staff of designers, fine art specialists and visual culture specialists is supported by a large number of specialist part-time lecturers, artists and designers, exposing students to the expertise and stimulation of leading practitioners and academics. Students are often also exposed to the industry through social engagement projects and other professional activities.

The activities of the Department are located in a number of main buildings on the main campus. In addition to large studios, there are individual studios for senior students, computer laboratories, photographic darkrooms, printmaking and sculpture facilities, as well as seminar and lecture rooms.

- Prof Amanda du Preez