Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts

The Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) in Visual Arts program prepares students for many career options as an art professional. The program is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university to major in visual arts.

The AFA curriculum focuses on creativity and technical skill along with historical knowledge of art and design. Courses and studio work build skills in concept development, visual observation, personal expression, critical thinking, and problem solving to prepare students for professional success. The program includes practical instruction in traditional drawing, design, painting, sculpting, and printmaking while also fully exploring digital and other emerging technologies. Faculty and advisors work one-on-one with students to explore transfer institutions and career options.

Upon successful completion of this degree program, graduates will be able to:

  • Demonstrate strong foundational skills in the visual arts.
  • Exhibit technical skill as well as the ability to incorporate concept into studio practice.
  • Demonstrate an awareness of the history and evolution of the fields of art and design.
  • Prepare a portfolio for transfer, personal use, and/or career development.

Learn more about the AFA Program!

Mission Statement

The mission of the Associate in Fine Arts degree program is to provide a strong foundation in the visual arts whereby students learn skills, vocabulary, and professional proficiency necessary for transfer and personal development.

Program Chair

 

Bailey Wingler

K Bailey Wingler

bailey.wingler@rccc.edu

704-216-3627

North Campus Bldg. N107

 

AFA students are able to transfer into UNC Charlotte's Department of Art and Art History. See your advisor for details.

The department is proud to offer individualized advising for all students who are assigned a permanent, full-time faculty advisor in their field.

There are seven UNC senior universities and 17 independent colleges and universities that offer BFA degrees in visual arts. Rowan-Cabarrus has a state-wide Uniform Articulation Agreement with these schools.

Q: Do you know the highest price ever paid for a piece of art by a U.S. artist? A: $110.5 million was paid for an untitled painting by Jean-Michel Basquiat in May 2017.

“We strive to provide a strong foundational program that prepares students for transfer into BFA- track programs.”

– Debora Kim, Instructor in Visual Art

RCCC has helped me learn more about myself and I would not have made it this far without the wonderful staff and friends I have met. I am not sure where the future will lead or what my end goal is but I know I will enjoy figuring things out and getting there.
Melissa Marlowe

Alumni

Faculty Show Workshop
Student working with clay in class
Students Work Together on the Community Mural
Studio Artwork