PROGRAM
Express Yourself
New Fine Arts Program Offers Artistic Options
In music and in life – timing can be everything. It certainly was for 19-year-old Kailene Markeson, who came to Wake Tech to pursue an Associate in Arts degree. “My dream,” she says, “is to become a music teacher!” Kailene loves to sing and play piano, and was thrilled when she heard that the college was launching a new Fine Arts program. In fact, she was one of the first students to sign up. “What perfect timing!” she says.
The program, which debuted in the fall of 2013, offers an Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) degree with two concentrations: music and visual art. Both provide a comprehensive and highly-personalized education with the core courses necessary to transfer to a four-year institution.
“Our mission is to provide Wake Tech students with sound instruction to guide them toward technical competence and a strong commitment to artistic quality,” says Department Head Dina Law. “We want them to be successful when they transfer.”
The music curriculum is hitting a high note with students like Kailene, exposing them to music theory, ear training, class piano, applied lessons, and ensemble. The program also offers performance opportunities, including chorus, vocal jazz ensemble, band, and music theater production. When Kailene graduates, she’ll be well prepared to pursue a bachelor’s degree in music.
Kailene looks forward to classes and often arrives early to practice with other students. “I am dedicating myself to music,” she says. “My instructors make it easy to succeed. They go above and beyond to make sure everyone understands.”
Tony Fields agrees. The 33-year-old retired soldier is pursuing an AFA degree with a concentration in visual art. “Wake Tech instructors tailor classes to students’ interests. It’s very personalized, which is extremely helpful.” The visual art curriculum provides a foundation in art while students complete the core academic curriculum. Coursework develops keen visual observation and problem-solving abilities, with additional focus on personal expression. The degree enables students to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program in design, fine arts, art education, or art history.
At the age of 69, Marlene Proteau is pursuing an AFA degree to fulfill her passion for lifelong learning. Marlene’s instructors were so impressed with her artwork that they asked her to create drawings of Wake Tech buildings for the college’s 50th anniversary celebration. The Wake Tech Foundation recognized Marlene’s work and rewarded her with a scholarship. “What an amazing opportunity,” Marlene says. “I never had a sketch book until I came to Wake Tech. Now I’m taking classes in drawing and painting, and it’s exciting!”
Wake Tech’s commitment to fine arts extends to the community as well. Performances, presentations, and workshops by students, faculty, and visiting artists are open to the public throughout the academic year. Performances have included musicals, such as Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods,” and a concert series that began with a night of jazz music last October. The Fine Arts Department also sponsored the very first “Wake Tech Idol” competition!
The Associate in Fine Arts degree programs are housed primarily on Wake Tech’s Northern Wake Campus, which features exhibition spaces, a 300-seat performance hall, and environmentally-friendly studios designed to enhance academic artistic development. Classes are also held on Wake Tech’s Main Campus.
“At Wake Tech, fine arts students will develop the skills they need to meet the requirements of an AFA degree program,” says Law. “However, they will also be exposed to new trends, techniques, and standards that will position them competitively in their careers.” Students will be poised for success – without skipping a beat!
For more information and performance schedules visit finearts.waketech.edu.