Carlow's arts graduates are different than other college graduates. All of Carlow’s fine arts, writing, and humanities programs are grounded in exploration or quintessentially human forms of expression and communication. They materialize our social justice mission in interesting and interactive ways.
“In my 80s, I am officially pursuing my passion for storytelling through ceramics, painting, and writing. My graduate project, “50 years of art and healing” is the culmination of my life’s experiences hosting nature-based healing retreats, and explores art and theology. Expression is different at Carlow because it is art for the sake of being in community and using our skills and talents for a purpose.” - Nancy, MA student, 84 years old
Communication is key, and in our present and future lives, fluent digital communicators are essential to driving change. In Carlow’s Digital Art and Media programs, you can learn graphic design, social media, and marketing alongside advocacy and social justice — so you can go online and make the world better for all, both virtually and in real life.
“Writing - like any art form - can be a lonely path to tread, but it doesn’t have to be done in isolation. Never have I felt such warmth and compassion from a group of writers as I have from my peers and mentors at Carlow University, both in Pittsburgh and in Dublin. We all delight in our growth as writers and we celebrate each other’s successes with love, as if they were our own.” - Georgia Hertz ‘23 - With a Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, or Poetry MFA, you will explore your creativity, refine your voice, and collaborate with acclaimed mentors to develop a publishable body of work.
Are you a female writer looking for an intense burst of personal mentorship, inspiration, and collaboration? Since 1979, Madwomen in the Attic has been a a vibrant community for women writers ages 18-99, celebrating their creativity, courage, and unique perspectives. To ensure these diverse voices are heard and valued we offer our poetry, fiction and non-fiction writers opportunities for publishing, mentoring, awards, and readings.
The Carlow University Art Gallery is the only art space in the Pittsburgh region completely dedicated to art and social justice. A nexus point of connection between the school, the students, and the community, here we think of art and activism as service, and the gallery as a center for dialogue and creativity, where students can get hands-on, professional experience working with professional curators and artists, or creating and curating their own exhibitions.
“As a practicing artist, the Art Education program at Carlow is ideal. I can actively think about creative ways to teach art to the next generation at the Campus School, while also working at the Art Gallery to bear witness to, learn from and be inspired by contemporary artists.” —Allison Pearl, current student