This fall, Interlochen Center for the Arts announced the addition of a new major at Interlochen Arts Academy. Starting in the 2010-11 academic year, the fine arts boarding high school will offer a comparative arts major. Designed for students who bring interest in multiple arts disciplines, the program will emphasize the relationship between different art forms and provide opportunities for interdisciplinary study.
The comparative arts program will be led by William Church (IAC 81, IAA 85-89, IAC St 88-89, IAC Fac 06-09, IAA Fac 05-present). “I am thrilled to be part of this endeavor,” said Church, who has taught in the theatre and motion picture arts programs. “The comparative arts program builds on the diversity of our artistic programs and the depth of our academics to create a unique learning opportunity for cross-departmental study. It opens possibilities for student artists who have curiosity, a passion for critical thinking and interest in more than one art discipline.”
In addition to the core college-preparatory curriculum taken by all Academy students, comparative arts majors will take a variety of arts courses each semester to develop an understanding and appreciation for each art form. Students will also take comparative arts classes that investigate the intersection of arts and academics and will demonstrate their progress through an annual project.