At Boston University School of Visual Arts (SVA), we nurture the creative potential of every student through a balance of rigorous training and open exploration. We emphasize collaboration and dialogue alongside the focus of the studio and the freedom of choices offered by the larger university. Through our ethos, curriculum, and program offerings, SVA engages students in highly experiential learning, building expertise and experimentation through critique, process, and concept.
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Ready to apply to a graduate or undergraduate program at BU School of Visual Arts? We can't wait to get to know you.
The SVA Experience
Resources for Students
The School of Visual Arts offers academic, extra-curricular, and career support for undergraduate and graduate students at all phases of their time at the College of Fine Arts. Find advising help, access equipment, and explore resources offered to all Boston University students.
SVA Stories
Read more BU School of Visual Arts students, faculty, and alumni making art and making change in the world
What to Find at Boston University Art Galleries This Fall
Fourteen artists investigate the medium of newspaper in the exhibition, Between the Bylines, and The Boston Printmakers return to Boston University for the 2026 North American Print Biennial
Alum Sculptor Captures “Inner Essence”
Janice Corkin Rudolf (CFA’74) has depicted Thoreau, Alcott—and Franklin Park Zoo’s Kiki the gorilla
Meet the Recently Promoted CFA Faculty
James Grady, Rob Patterson, and Gareth Dylan Smith are among the 38 members of Boston University faculty promoted this year
The Museum of the Mind
Inspired by objects unearthed on archaeological digs, James Gold paints artifacts of his own invention, from papyrus scrolls to woven tapestries to stone mosaics
Lynne Allen Named Interim Dean of College of Fine Arts
CFA professor will serve until a successor to Dean Harvey Young is chosen
Creatives in Practice: Lucy Kim
BU Associate Professor of Art in Painting and recently announced Wagner Fellow, Lucy Kim, had a solo exhibition of melanin prints in the Henry Art Gallery at the University of Washington in Seattle
From Classroom to Convocation: Chia-Yi Chen Named CFA’s 2026 Student Speaker
Doctor of Musical Arts in Violin Performance major Chia-Yi Chen will address the Class of 2026 at CFA’s Convocation Ceremony on May 16
BFA Thesis Exhibition Highlights Dazzling Work by Graduating Seniors in School of Visual Arts
Four painting, sculpture, printmaking, and graphic design students talk about their projects. The show is on view at 808 Gallery through May 9
Why BU School of Visual Arts?
Guided by world-class artists and educators emphasizing skill-building and the ability to think creatively, you will hone your eye, hand, and mind at SVA.
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Visual Arts
Alum Sculptor Captures “Inner Essence”
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Arts Leadership
Lynne Allen Named Interim Dean of College of Fine Arts
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Visual Arts Events
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