A group of 9th grade students visited the Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD) over spring break with the BDS Community School Site Specialist, and learned a lot. DCAD, located in Wilmington, Delaware, has six programs of study; Animation, graphic design, fine arts, illustration, photography and a new game art program.   They have a gallery […]

A group of 9th grade students visited the Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD) over spring break with the BDS Community School Site Specialist, and learned a lot. DCAD, located in Wilmington, Delaware, has six programs of study; Animation, graphic design, fine arts, illustration, photography and a new game art program.   They have a gallery on the main floor that’s open to the public where student work is not only on display, but can also be for sale!
Admissions Counselor – Delania took the group throughout the intimate campus where each ‘classroom’ was also a working studio.  The Illustration wing is set up with live modeling and studio space, display area and places for students to store work in progress.

Students toured the animation floor and were able to view current assignments as students master the animation process.  Pictured above are flipbooks where the artist recreated an image or character over and over in different positions, so when the book is flipped through in sequential order, the object appears animated.  Below are developed characters in various stages of movement.
The group was treated to a special visit with Meegs Johnson – Director of the Thronson Library.  This special place is home to the largest curated selection of design books in the state of Maryland!  Johnson, a MICA graduate, took time to show students how important art history can be in the creative process.  Director Johnson pulled out a selection of books that marked the beginning of digital game design and how it has evolved.
Director Johnson also talked about the availability of professional publications and how they can help students not only learn about industry trends, but also keep their fingers on the pulse of new careers, companies, skills that will help them design a lucrative future.
The BDS group was especially interested in the game boards created by DCAD students in the Game Art pathway.  Delaina explained that the faculty believe if students understand the process and theory behind a board came, they will be able to create digitally with a better understanding.

An exciting update last fall was the addition of a product design program.  A portion of studio space is being converted to a maker space to accommodate ​the curriculum.

While DCAD is a small, family-like campus, the student housing is a converted hotel which offers studio-like living with far more space than an average dorm room. They offer gender neutral options and students are allowed to have support animals on-site to support their emotional well-being.  Campus housing and dining are located within 2 blocks of the main building, and are closely monitored for security.

DCAD offers a 2 – year Arts Associates degree and professional development.   Take flip through the viewbook or take a virtual tour of the Delaware College of Art and Design here.