The core principle of Fine and Performing Arts at PVCC as it surges into the 21st Century is Neo-Renaissance-a marriage of the best of the classical traditions in education with the most up-to-date, groundbreaking innovations in learning.

PVCC arts are classical in that they aspire toward the ideal of the in-depth, well-rounded scholar. This ideal will be sought through programs that encourage students to experience as many of the arts as possible at the most rigorous level: Fine and Performing Arts Scholars, First-Year Experience, and new courses that will challenge students to their utmost. This ideal will combine enhancements of current programs-Learning Connections, Learning Communities-with exciting new initiatives such as the Annual Arts Festival.

PVCC arts will be groundbreaking through their pursuit of the finest new technologies and concepts: high tech, integrated visual arts studio; interactive art gallery; state-of-the-art architecture and functional design in the Performing Arts Center and Arts Complex. Expertise in the training and maintenance of new technologies will come with the addition of a visual arts technology instructor and lab technicians.

Outward symbols of this partnership tradition and innovation-as well as the beautification of the campus-will come through the adaptation of existing spaces as art galleries, and construction of the M-Building Fountain and Arts-and Sciences Garden.

With the Neo-Renaissance ideal as the broad river of our Arts Programs, the main currents are student-centeredness and synergism.

Student-centeredness is the foremost priority and will be achieved through improvement of existing programs and the ongoing search for new ones to guide students toward ever-new regions of discovery. Student writers will explore the breadth of literature in the PVCC Review and Writers' Guild. Arts faculty will make increased use of the choices @PVC options to meet the rapidly changing needs our students face. New programs include Student Mentors, Study Abroad, and Special Projects in the arts.

Synergism is the quality that most clearly defines PVCC Arts Programs. Instructors have forged a powerful campus network by joining hearts and minds to strengthen all areas of learning through the Arts Committee and Visiting Artists Series. Increased sharing will be reached with the integrated design of the Arts Complex, the versatility of the Show Wagon, and the inclusiveness of the Annual Festival. Student learning in the arts will benefit through new links with Library/Media, BPC/CIS, Student Life, Continuing Education, shared facilities on an off campus, and corporate partnerships.

Support for these programs will be sought through the addition of the Arts Program Office with its Director and Coordinator, the Arts Advisory Board, and with new funding from grants and corporate giving.

The Arts at PVCC have many tributaries-programs, facilities, technology, and most of all people-that combined will be an irresistible wave to move our students and campus to regions of unmatched accomplishment and distinction.

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