Northwestern State University has many opportunities for students interested in the arts, including unique classes, knowledgeable professors and structured degree plans catered to each student. NSU offers both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in fine arts, allowing students to prepare for a career in studio art, crafts, graphic communication and interdisciplinary design.

Leslie Gregory Gruesbeck is the department head and associate professor of art. “As department head, I try to help things run smoothly and facilitate positive growth in the art department—both for students and faculty,” Gruesbeck said. “As an associate professor, I teach fundamental classes to incoming students, fiber art classes and senior exhibition courses to graduating students. I love that I teach students when they first arrive and when they are finishing their degree. That’s a fantastic privilege, and I value the number of incredibly gifted artists I have taught at NSU.”

Students are incredibly valued at Northwestern State University within the Department of Fine and Graphic Arts and they can experience and learn many different forms of art at NSU.

Cameron Murphy is a senior graphic communication major who enjoys all that the visual arts program has to offer. “The visual arts program offers unique classes for students such as crafts, sculpture, painting, 3D printing and photography. It is a place for students with creative minds that enjoy expressing themselves through art,” Murphy said.

Francene Lemoine is the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “Our faculty develop close relationships with our students because they have to figure out ways to provide constructive feedback. In the arts, there is no such thing as a mistake. Our professors help our students see that and help them find a new perspective or learn how to make it better,” Lemoine said.

The Department of Fine and Graphic Arts has something for everyone, putting the needs and goals of students first and allowing all students at NSU to find their place.