Painting Philosophy

Brian Szeto (MFA Painting 2022)

Photo: Sarah C. Blanchette

Painting Philosophy

Painting Philosophy

Contemporary painting is a rich and complex activity

The Painting department is made up of highly ambitious artists developing their practices within a context of rigorous studio work, experimentation, research, and dialogue. We provide a distinct and irreducible educational experience, guided by the cross-pollinating interests of a diverse community of artists. The department supports a wide array of processes and practices, from traditional methods to experimental approaches.

Dynamic discussions further conceptual and procedural possibilities, as we collaboratively examine the unique modes, materials, and ideas each artist brings to the department. We engage and inspire one another with an ever-changing multitude of perspectives informed by current and varied understandings of art history, identity, theory, technology, philosophy, and culture.

Students energize each other as a community, while independently enacting their own visions of the limitless potential within the field of painting and contemporary art.

Martha Mysko + Willie Wayne Smith

The Cranbrook Experience in Painting

Martha Mysko + Willie Wayne Smith

The Cranbrook Experience in Painting

Student Work

Student Work
Alice Yutong Hua (MFA Painting 2022)
Student Work
Fidelis Joseph (MFA Painting 2023)
Student Work
Ian Miller (MFA Painting 2022)
Student Work
Mieyoshi Ragernoir (MFA Painting 2022)
Student Work
Nick Pizaña (MFA Painting 2022)
Student Work
Walker Walls Tarver (MFA Painting 2023)
Student Work
Kiyuen Kim (MFA Painting 2022)
Student Work
Lindsey Woodward, 2021
Student Work
Sylvain Malfroy-Camine, 2021
Student Work
Isabella McCormick, 2021
Student Work
Ian Torres McLaughlin, 2021
Student Work
Brach Tiller, 2021
Student Work
Lauren Levato Coyne, 2020
Student Work
Taylor Stewart, 2020
Student Work
GE Liu, 2020
Student Work
Natalie Wadlington, 2020
Student Work
Zhao Zhao Wang
Student Work
Alan Bennetts, 2019
Student Work
Alex Biegler, 2019
Student Work
Lauren McKee, 2019
Student Work
Marianna Olague, 2019
Student Work
Sun Wang, 2019
Student Work
Douglas Pendleton, (MFA Painting 2022)
Student Work
Conrad Egyir, 2018
Student Work
Kari Cholnoky, 2014
Cultivate a Professional Painting Practice

To love painting is to examine and explore its possibilities, limitations, complexities, histories, cultural signifiers, and current role in the global art world.