The sculpture & intermedia program at the University of Iowa prioritizes conversation that invites multiple perspectives into the process of self-discovery and supports each student’s pathway through the field of contemporary ideas and art practice.  

Sculpture & intermedia is comprised of two distinct disciplines that have a rich history and symbiosis in the School. This purposeful union enhances creative opportunities for students and fosters new avenues for research.

As a fluid and malleable practice, students are exposed to a broad spectrum of possibilities stimulating research to develop an upward learning path that relies on conceptual thinking and making. In sculpture, we explore the essential relationships between concept, form, space, and the body to encourage students to work on installations, site-specific, objects, kinetics, video, performance and, robotics. At the same time, we offer bronze and aluminum casting, metal fabrication, or wood assemblage, all embodying interdisciplinary exploration in search of original content. Students work with faculty who are both exhibiting artists with an active studio practice. The program has a dedicated Instructional Services Specialist who is an expert technician in the studio.

Our program prepares students to be lifelong learners.  Many of our BFA students have continued on to receive their MFA’s at prestigious institutions around the country. Others have started fine art studio practices and are exhibiting artists, work in museums, fabrication shops, exhibition design and as studio assistants, many others pursue academic fields.