Blaine Caldwell
Professor of Art
M.F.A., University of Arkansas
M.A., University of Arizona
B.A., University of the Ozarks
Office: 117 Walton Fine Arts Center
Phone: (479) 979-1348
E-Mail: bcaldwel@ozarks.edu
When asked what he likes about being at the University of the Ozarks, Professor Caldwell's response is "Almost everything!" A faculty member since 1982, Professor Caldwell has been a part of the significant changes that have taken place in the University's art program -- changes which have seen the art courses move from out-dated studios in the basement of Voorhees Hall, to the spacious, state-of-the-art Walton Fine Arts building. One has only to walk through the building to see the explosion of creativity coming from the students in the program. A peek through a studio door might reveal Professor Caldwell deep in discussion with a sculpture student. Of his choice of professions, Professor Caldwell says, "Teaching was the only job I could find that actually pays me to do the things I love best -- making and talking about art!"
Professor Caldwell's experience as an artist and art instructor has been filled with challenges and rewards. He says that during his years of teaching he has learned a very important lesson from his students -- patience. When asked what he would do differently if he were 18 again, Professor Caldwell answers "Listen to my father!" He speaks honestly to his students when he says "Sculpture is indeed 10% inspiration, 90% perspiration and a pinch of determination." To further that message, Professor Caldwell provides opportunities for students to exhibit their work at various on-campus shows throughout the year, and some majors may get a chance to work with Caldwell and nationally recognized sculptor Pat Musick in a unique outdoor sculpture garden on the Musick/Carr property in Madison County, Arkansas. By providing these opportunities, Professor Caldwell hopes his students will leave Ozarks with a "lifelong appreciation of the great art of the past and present, and a commitment to a personal artistic vision based on creativity and craftsmanship."
Professor Caldwell's life outside of teaching is filled with activities such as working in his garden, cooking, traveling and fishing. Asked where he finds inspiration in his day-to-day life he responds with one simple word -- "nature."
