Student Experience
Student Clubs
Students will find that the Art, Art History, and Design Department is focused on building up and supporting the full student experience. All of the faculty ensure that there is investigation and discovery which is suited to each discipline. Art History faculty challenge students with comprehensive research projects which are tailored to the individual’s areas of interests. Fine art faculty lead by example, typically working alongside students in the labs. Students are challenged to increasingly more ambitious projects as they move through the program.
Graphic Design faculty introduce realistic industry-based projects to students in all levels of coursework. Collectively, each area develops a working relationship with the cohort as they gain historical, conceptual and practical knowledge. Due to the small class sizes, students work closely with faculty and share access to department guests, specialized equipment and other resources which make students thrive and flourish in their discipline. Outward facing practice such as gallery shows, internships, lectures and study abroad are all part of the total student experience.
| Ceramics | Graphic Design | Painting/Drawing | Printmaking | Photography | Sculpture |
| #unfceramics | #cmdn.designclub | #unfpdguild | #unfprintmaking | #unfphoto | #unfsculpt |
Painting & Drawing Guild
At the University of North Florida, the Painting and Drawing Guild is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all emerging artists, regardless of their major or skill level. The Guild offers a space for self-expression, connection, and growth beyond the classroom for all students. By attending Guild meetings, members can build lasting relationships with fellow talented artists in their community through activities such as drawing nights, movie nights, potlucks, and collaborations with other art guilds. Additionally, the Guild provides opportunities to develop valuable professional art skills, including strategies for promoting oneself and selling artwork through events like Artwalk in downtown Jacksonville, where students can sell their work through the Guild. Ultimately, the Painting and Drawing Guild is a dynamic and empowering community that nurtures both creative and professional growth for its members.
Guild Gallery
CMD+N Graphic Design Club
𝐂𝐌𝐃+𝐍 is where UNF designers come together to build a strong community of friends with the common interest of graphic design & digital media. We post information regarding the club meetings/updates, design events, job/volunteer opportunities, and links related to our field.
Club Gallery
Printmaking Guild
The guild actively participates in public art projects and events, such as UNF Homecoming, MOCA Family Day, Art Walk, and the UNF Iron Pour. In addition, the Printmaking Guild hosts events aimed at developing entrepreneurial and professional skills. These activities assist students in expanding their artistic knowledge and gaining practical experience.
Photo Club
The Photo Club is a campus initiative dedicated to creating a community of photographers that collaborate to experiment with processes and create photographic artwork. Members are also prompted to submit work to galleries and engage in the local photography scene.
Club Gallery
UNF Sculpture Program & Sculpture Guild
The Sculpture Program at the University of North Florida (UNF) fosters student creativity and growth through demonstrations, discussions, hands-on experiences, workshops, guest lectures, and exhibitions. As part of the Department of Art, Art History, and Design, the program offers students an interdisciplinary approach to contemporary sculpture.
Students gain hands-on experience in metal fabrication, woodworking, casting, carving, assemblage, and mixed media, exploring both traditional craftsmanship and experimental processes. Courses integrate historical and contemporary practices, ensuring a strong conceptual and technical foundation. State-of-the-art facilities—including a metal shop, foundry, woodshop, and digital fabrication resources such as a laser cutter, CNC plasma torch, and various types of 3D printers—along with a gallery space, all help support students and their work. Small class sizes and exhibition opportunities further enrich the experience.
The UNF Sculpture Guild, a student-run organization, builds upon the UNF Sculpture program, creating a vibrant sculptural community through workshops, guest lectures, and exhibitions. The guild participates in public art projects such as the UNF Iron Pour, hosts events to develop professional skills, and assists students in expanding their artistic knowledge through travel opportunities. These include field trips to renowned sculpture sites such as SLOSS, museums, and outdoor sculpture gardens beyond the local area. Additionally, the guild encourages international learning experiences, such as participation in the International Conference on Contemporary Cast Iron Art (ICCCIA), providing students with exposure to global sculptural practices and networking opportunities within the field.