Painting

The Cranbrook Painting Department provides an adaptable support structure for highly ambitious and self-driven artists as they hone their individual practices within a context of rigorous studio work, experimentation, research, and dialogue. As a reflection of the complex field of painting, we are decidedly not typified by any singular approach, overarching methodology, or specific discourse. We provide a distinct and irreducible educational experience, guided by the cross-pollinating interests of a diverse community of artists.

The department esteems a wide range of painting approaches from traditional methods to investigations within the expanded field. 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 everything painting has yet to be.

The painting department is devoted to individual work in the studio. Frequent group and individual critiques allow students to engage in dialogue with peers and the Artists-in-Residence. These encounters challenge students to question their intentions, encourage experimentation, and to press their work further. Visiting artists, critics, and theorists offer lectures, critiques, and seminars that add breadth to the curriculum. A prominent critic or curator is brought in to critique each student’s thesis work at the end of their fourth semester.In weekly group critiques, students and the Artists-in-Residence discuss issues relevant to the work produced in the department. We meet monthly to have comprehensive discussions around readings with a specific focus on painting. Readings are selected based on the conversations

and work happening in the department each semester. Field trips to Detroit-based artist studios and galleries provide opportunities for students to connect with the local art community. Typically once a year, the department travels to New York City to visit museums, galleries, and artists’ studios, further developing the dialogue with recent visiting artists and critics.

The studio building was designed by Eliel Saarinen specifically to accommodate painters, with high ceilings, solid walls, good light, and privacy. Studios are accessible seven days a week, 24 hours a day, and are close to the library, Central Media Lab, Art Museum, and deSalle Auditorium. Students have quick access to these facilities to view art, conduct research, or attend events. The department maintains a wide range of basic hand tools and photo documentation equipment. The studios are near the woodshop, where students can build stretcher bars, constructions, and shaped canvases. A skilled technician supervises the woodshop, and instruction is available. The department also houses a “toxic room” with a fully operational ventilation system where airborne and liquid mediums can be employed.