Introduction
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design (RMCAD) is a private art and design college located in Lakewood, Colorado. Founded in 1963, it is one of the oldest and most respected art schools in the United States. RMCAD offers a wide range of degree programs in fields such as fine arts, illustration, graphic design, and interior design, among others. With its stunning mountain setting, state-of-the-art facilities, and experienced faculty, RMCAD is a premier destination for students who are passionate about pursuing a career in the arts.
The History of RMCAD
RMCAD has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back over six decades. The college was founded in 1963 by Philip J. Steele, a prominent Denver artist and educator who saw a need for a high-quality art school in the Rocky Mountain region. Originally called the Rocky Mountain School of Art, the institution quickly gained a reputation as one of the top art schools in the country. In 1968, the school moved to its current location in Lakewood, Colorado, where it continued to expand its academic programs and facilities.
Over the years, RMCAD has produced a number of notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in the art and design world. These include artists such as Wopo Holup, known for her innovative work in textile design, and Andrew Novick, a renowned multimedia artist who has exhibited his work across the country. Today, RMCAD continues to uphold its tradition of excellence in the arts, providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers.
The Campus and Facilities at RMCAD
RMCAD’s campus is situated on a beautiful 23-acre site in Lakewood, Colorado, just a short distance from downtown Denver. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the iconic Mary Harris Memorial Chapel, which was built in 1922 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to its academic buildings, the campus also includes a range of amenities such as student housing, a dining hall, and a fitness center.
The facilities at RMCAD are state-of-the-art, with modern equipment and technology available to students across all disciplines. The college’s digital media labs, for example, feature the latest in software and hardware for graphic design, animation, and other digital media applications. RMCAD also has a fully-equipped photo studio and darkroom, as well as a woodworking and metal shop for students interested in fine arts and sculpture. With its cutting-edge facilities and resources, RMCAD provides students with everything they need to succeed in their artistic pursuits.
The Programs and Curriculum at RMCAD
RMCAD offers a wide range of degree programs in fields such as fine arts, illustration, graphic design, and interior design, among others. The college’s curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in their chosen field, while also encouraging them to explore new techniques and approaches to art and design.
One unique aspect of RMCAD’s curriculum is its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. Students are encouraged to take courses in other departments and disciplines, allowing them to broaden their skills and knowledge and develop a more well-rounded approach to their art. For example, a student studying graphic design may take courses in illustration or fine arts, while a student in the fine arts program may take courses in photography or digital media.
RMCAD also offers a number of specialized programs, such as its Game Art program, which focuses on the creation of video games and other interactive media. The college’s Interior Design program, meanwhile, emphasizes sustainable design practices and includes coursework in topics such as lighting design and furniture design. With its diverse range of programs and emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, RMCAD provides students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen careers.
Student Life at RMCAD
RMCAD offers a vibrant and diverse student community, with students from across the country and around the world. The college has a range of clubs and organizations, including the Art Club, the Film Club, and the LGBTQ+ Alliance, among others. These clubs provide students with opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, explore new interests, and develop leadership skills.
In addition to its clubs and organizations, RMCAD also hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year. These include art exhibitions, film screenings, and guest lectures from prominent artists and designers. These events provide students with opportunities to engage with the wider art and design community and gain valuable insights into the industry.
RMCAD also offers a range of support services to help students succeed academically and personally. These services include academic advising, tutoring, and counseling services. The college is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
RMCAD’s Impact on the Art and Design World
Over the years, RMCAD has had a significant impact on the art and design world. The college’s alumni have gone on to achieve great success in a range of fields, from fine arts to graphic design to animation. RMCAD has also been recognized for its innovative and forward-thinking approach to art and design education.
In recent years, RMCAD has received numerous awards and accolades for its programs and facilities. In 2017, for example, the college was named one of the top 25 art schools in the United States by TheBestSchools.org. The same year, RMCAD’s Interior Design program was ranked #4 in the nation by DesignIntelligence.
RMCAD’s impact on the art and design world can also be seen in its partnerships and collaborations with other institutions and organizations. The college has partnerships with a number of local and national organizations, including the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, and the Colorado Photographic Arts Center, among others. These partnerships provide students with valuable opportunities to connect with the wider art and design community and gain real-world experience in their chosen field.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design is a premier destination for students who are passionate about pursuing a career in the arts. With its rich history, stunning campus and facilities, diverse range of programs and curriculum, vibrant student community, and significant impact on the art and design world, RMCAD provides students with everything they need to succeed in their chosen careers.