The College Catalogue

The arts at Bowdoin are characterized by stunning facilities and an absolute commitment to their role in a liberal education.

Not having painted, danced, or played an instrument before coming to Bowdoin is not a barrier to participate, evidenced by the vibrant student performance and art exhibition scene on campus. For students wishing to specialize in an artistic field, Bowdoin’s programs offer exceptional flexibility and the opportunity for in-depth scholarship with recognized faculty.

Visual Arts Facilities

Students have the opportunity to take classes and do independent work in a variety of studio facilities. Three main studios, along with prime exhibition space, are located in the Visual Arts Center. Its prominent place on the Bowdoin Quad, the spectacular light from the large windows above, and the expansive views of the campus have nurtured creativity and learning for decades. Painting studios, computer studios, an architecture studio, faculty studios, and the photography facilities are located a short distance away in the McLellan Building. The printmaking studio is located in a renovated carriage house across the street from the Visual Arts Center, and two sculpture studios are located in a renovated textile mill a short distance from campus. The Visual Arts Center also houses the Pierce Art Library and Kresge Auditorium.

Pickard and Wish Theaters

Memorial Hall includes state-of-the-art performance, rehearsal, set, and instructional facilities. The centerpiece is Pickard Theater, a 600-seat theater with proscenium stage equipped with a full fly system and computer lighting. The 150-seat Wish Theater addresses the needs of experimental, educational theater with a very flexible, relatively small space with high-tech lighting and sound. Memorial Hall also features a fully equipped design classroom, seminar rooms, and a dance studio. A new dance studio is located a short distance away at 16 Station Avenue.

Studzinski Recital Hall

The world-class Studzinski Recital Hall is a transformation of the Curtis Pool building (also designed by McKim, Mead, and White) into a 280-seat, state-of-the-art facility for small- and medium-sized musical performances. The hall includes a rehearsal room, nine practice rooms, and a number of Steinway pianos. Kanbar Auditorium features raked seating, exceptional acoustics, advanced technical capabilities, and a stage designed to accommodate different performance configurations and types of musical programs, including classical, jazz, electronic, and world music.

See also: Museums.