Art Faculty

Associate Professor of Art/Graphic Design Mark Fertig, department head, holds an M.F.A. in graphic design from East Tennessee State University. A prolific and award-winning professional designer, he teaches courses in visual problem solving, corporate identity systems, typography, page layout and design software applications.

Assistant Professor of Art History Ashley Busby is a Ph.D. candidate at The University of Texas. Her research currently focuses on 20th century European modernism, particularly the intersection of surrealism and astronomy. She coordinates the art history program and teaches courses across the spectrum of the discipline

Assistant Professor of Art Ann Piper holds an M.F.A. in painting from New Mexico State University. A widely recognized figurative painter with a national exhibition record, she coordinates the studio art program and teaches courses in painting, drawing and art foundations.

Professional artists and designers teach studio art courses. Their areas of expertise range from photography, drawing, painting, sculpture and printmaking to graphic design. Studio faculty are announced on a semester-by-semester basis in registration schedules.

Learning goals:

  • Demonstrate a basic professional competence in their chosen area of specialization.
  • Are objective evaluators of their work and that of others and are able to place their work within a logical historical contemporary context.
  • Are aware of the cultural importance of their work and are able to write and speak about it using appropriate language.
  • Comprehend art history from the cave era through today.
  • Possess skills essential for entry into the professional world or graduate school.