A.R.T.S. - Art Research Travel Studies

The University of Memphis A.R.T.S. (art research travel studies) is an organization founded by and composed of undergraduate and graduate students from the Department of Art and across the University. The main goal/purpose of this organization is to promote the appreciation enjoyment and understanding of all forms of art through trips to the major art centers throughout the country and the world. We encourage anyone with an interest in art to participate in this organization, whatever you major may be. A.R.T.S. is for those graduate and undergraduate students who hold a 2.0 or higher GPA.

Each year A.R.T.S. sponsors an organized trip to see original works of art, visit artist studios, participate in workshops; tour design firms, and learns from professionals in all media. We visit major museums to see standing collections, special exhibitions, and even make arrangements to visit private study rooms to view works under conservation and restoration. Past trips have included places such as: Washington D.C., Chicago, New York City, Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Greece, Brussels, Prague and Vienna.

To raise funds for these trips, students hold an annual art auction where the public may bid on works by students, faculty and area artists. These events make the trips surprisingly affordable. In the twelve years we have been making these trips, the cost has never been more than $700 for trips within the U.S. and $1600 for Europe, which includes airfare five to eight nights in a three to four star hotel.

Considering all that is available through this organization, the dues are small – only fifteen dollars per year. If you are interested in participating in A.R.T.S. please contact the organizations faculty advisor, David Horan at 901/678-2925 or dhoran@memphis.edu.