John Berry | Faculty

Innovative Artistry

Success and accomplishment flow from the challenging work done in the classroom and studio at DePauw – and it looks different for each student. I help my students think through what it means to make good art and then how to make it themselves. They learn how to interpret cultural influence, approach context and become sensitive to visual information.

At DePauw, a student is not always at their easel. They learn behind-the-scenes aspects of studio practice and spend semesters abroad in iconic cities like Paris to connect their unique interests to artistic expression. We install and showcase their work for the town and campus, culminating in an outstanding senior year thesis exhibition. 

I’ve seen students take their experiences in the arts at DePauw and go on to create amazing work and get recognized for it; I’ve also watched students apply their accomplishment to reshape fashion, design, education and activism.