Art Matters – Keep the TRU BFA Alive and Thriving

The future of arts education at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) has been thrown into uncertainty after the university announced plans to phase out its Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program. The decision, revealed in April 2023, came as a shock to faculty, students, and the wider Kamloops artistic community. Within days, a petition was launched calling for the program to be saved, garnering over 2,300 signatures. However, conflicting reports emerged as TRU later claimed the cancellation was a “misunderstanding” and the program’s fate would be reviewed. This article summarizes the unfolding events, viewpoints, and debate around the proposed BFA closure using media reports and an interview with a long-time program faculty member and special Senate meeting on September 18, 2023. With the program in limbo awaiting a final verdict, concerned students, faculty and arts supporters continue mobilizing to save this vital piece of the city’s creative ecosystem.

Senate September 18 special meeting.

 It is clear that community oppose the current proposal to eliminate BFA program at TRU.

Here is some of the ideas that were evident from listening to speakers at the special Senate meeting and reviewing community members’ appeal:

• The Fine Arts program has dedicated faculty who have contributed greatly to the university, community, and students over the years. Eliminating it would undo this legacy.
• Fine Arts graduates have gone on to successful careers locally, nationally, and internationally, enhancing TRU’s reputation. Closing the program harms these alumni.
• Fine Arts courses teach critical “soft skills” like creativity, innovation, collaboration, critical thinking, and empathy that are valuable in workplaces and life.
• Studies show arts education benefits mental health. Eliminating Fine Arts could negatively impact student and faculty morale and wellbeing.
• Fine Arts students and faculty have strong ties to local cultural institutions like the Kamloops Art Gallery, contributing to the city’s vibrancy. Cutting Fine Arts diminishes this.
• The program has high Indigenous student enrollment (22%). Its closure disproportionately impacts Indigenous learners and undermines reconciliation efforts.
• An external program review is mandated every 7 years but has not occurred since 2011. The program needs revitalization, not elimination.
• The financial data presented to justify elimination is questionable and based on faulty comparisons. Proper data is required to make this decision.
• Rather than pit programs against each other, sustainability can be achieved at a Faculty level by balancing small Fine Arts courses with larger lectures, like in Sciences.
• With proper support and promotion, Fine Arts can increase enrollment and become more financially stable, keeping this critical creative program alive.

Summary of events from the media

Here is a summary of what happened with the BFA program at Thompson Rivers University in April 2023 from media articles I have reviewed (see the list below):

On April 20, visual arts faculty at TRU were informed that the university would be phasing out the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program over the next 3 years. No new students would be enrolled and current students had 3 years to complete their degrees.

This decision came as a shock to faculty, students and the Kamloops arts community. A BFA graduate started an online petition on April 25 calling for the program to be saved, which quickly gained over 2,300 signatures.

On April 25, TRU confirmed to media that the BFA was being phased out due to low enrollment numbers and financial pressures. Courses were more expensive to run than other programs.

Arts faculty and students spoke out against the cancellation, noting the quality of graduates, opportunities for Indigenous students, and partnership with the Kamloops Art Gallery that would be lost.

On April 28, TRU backtracked and claimed the BFA cancellation was a “misunderstanding.” A new statement said no final decision had been made and the program would undergo a review process.

The provost’s letter cited the need to balance arts education with “economic realities” and provincial mandates favoring programs tied to employment.

TRU stated its Board of Governors would make the final decision on the BFA program’s fate after consulting stakeholders and following policy.

Despite TRU claiming the closure was not definite, faculty and students continue to advocate for keeping the BFA program and circulating the petition. They remain concerned the program will be eliminated without adequate consultation.

Summary of events from Faculty member

Darlene Kalynka has been teaching within the BFA program for 35 years and shared with me her story on what happened with the BFA program at Thompson Rivers University in April 2023:

In initial meetings, Visual Arts faculty were told new facilities would be built to accommodate the program in a smaller space.

On April 20th, faculty learned the BFA program was being canceled due to low enrollment numbers. They were told their jobs were not threatened.

A new Communications Design program was announced that would utilize Visual Arts resources and space.

The cancellation came after the government denied funding for new Visual Arts facilities, wanting to prioritize student housing instead.

The Dean justified the cancellation by citing the program’s expense, lack of innovation by faculty, and low enrollments.

But faculty dispute the reasons given and want the decision reviewed.

There is a August 1st deadline for submission of letters expressing concerns about the cancellation to TRU leadership and governance bodies.

Letters should address the points raised by the Dean and clarify facts about the BFA and Visual Arts at TRU.

Darlene also shared a summary of the inaccuracies in the TRUconnect Opening Comments by the Provost regarding the Visual Arts space:

OM 1522 is listed as Visual Arts space but is occupied by the Research office.

OM 1501 is claimed by Student Affairs but listed as 50% Visual Arts space. A storeroom divides it from OM 1509.

The Visual Arts Diploma is titled “Diploma in Visual Arts” not “Diploma of Fine Arts.”

The proposed Communication Graphic Design degree relies on first year courses planned to be dropped from the BFA program.

OM 1565 is labeled Ceramics but that discipline has been inactive since 2005. It is used for 3D Foundation and sculpture.

Studios are used interchangeably for different courses, not dedicated spaces.

OM 1561 is now used for foundation courses but labeled as a sculpture display room. It is noisy and cold.

The Communication Design degree plan does not consider pedagogy. Graphic design courses using dedicated space are being cancelled so the space can become lecture halls.

What can be done to support BFA program faculty and students:

Sign a petition:https://www.change.org/p/save-the-bfa-at-thompson-rivers-university-kamloops-b-c

Write a letter of support to keep BFA program at TRU.

These are the individuals and addresses that letters can be sent to:

• bfairbairn@tru.ca (Professor Brett Fairbairn, President)
• provost@tru.ca (Professor Gillian Balfour, Provost)
• secretariat@tru.ca (the general Senate email)
• rmccutcheon@tru.ca (Professor Richard McCutcheon, Dean of Arts)
• chuscroft@tru.ca (Professor Crystal Huscroft, Arts Senate rep)
• cmontoya@tru.ca (Professor Chris Montoya, Arts Senate rep)

Reasons not to close BFA program at TRU:

Here are some key points on why the BFA program at Thompson Rivers University should not be closed:

• Longstanding program with over 35 years of history providing arts education and enriching the cultural fabric of Kamloops. Phasing it out disrespects this legacy.
• Produces high quality graduates that go on to successful art careers locally, provincially, nationally and internationally, acting as ambassadors for Kamloops’ arts community. Closing the program deprives the city of this talent pipeline.
• Provides important opportunities for Indigenous students to explore art and share their culture. Approximately 30% of BFA students are Indigenous. Eliminating the program takes away an avenue for reconciliation.
• Strong enrollment of international students who may no longer come to TRU and Kamloops without the program. Loss of diversity harms the school and city.
• Partnership with Kamloops Art Gallery for curating courses gives students invaluable real-world experience and strengthens the connection between TRU and the city’s arts institutions.
• Supports other programs by providing a foundation for students transferring into education, media arts and other fields. The loss of the BFA program would negatively impact these other areas.
• Kamloops aspires to be an arts and culture hub, but closing the BFA program contradicts this goal. Keeping vibrant arts education options is crucial for nurturing the city’s creative economy.
• Program could be restructured and refreshed rather than terminated completely. Changes to the program should be explored before severing this pillar of TRU’s arts education.
• Decision made unilaterally without adequate consultation of students, faculty and the wider arts community. A collaborative review process would be more appropriate.

In summary, the TRU BFA program has huge value academically, culturally and economically for both the school and the city of Kamloops. Eliminating rather than improving it deals a major blow to the arts. TRU should reconsider this decision and work to keep this vital program alive.

World Universities Praise their BFA Program: Here is 100+ Reasons Why?

I have looked at other universities in Canada and globally and here what they are saying about their DBA degrees.

1. Unique learning opportunities: A fine art degree program offers a unique and immersive learning experience that cannot be replicated in other academic fields.
2. Creative expression: Students pursuing a fine art degree have the opportunity to express their creativity and explore their artistic talents in a supportive environment.
3. Skill development: A fine art degree program provides students with the opportunity to develop and refine their technical skills in areas such as drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking.
4. Career opportunities: A fine art degree can lead to a wide range of career opportunities, including positions as professional artists, art educators, curators, gallery directors, and more.
5. Cultural awareness: Studying fine art can provide students with a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures and their artistic traditions.
6. Personal growth: Pursuing a fine art degree can help students develop a greater sense of self-awareness and personal growth as they explore their creativity and express themselves through their art.
7. Critical thinking skills: Studying fine art requires students to think critically about their own work and the work of others, helping them to develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
8. Collaborative skills: Fine art degree programs often require students to collaborate on group projects, fostering strong teamwork and communication skills.
9. Technology skills: Many fine art degree programs now incorporate the use of technology into the curriculum, helping students to develop skills in areas such as digital art, graphic design, and multimedia.
10. Entrepreneurship skills: Pursuing a fine art degree can also prepare students for entrepreneurship and self-employment, providing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully market and sell their own artwork.
11. Networking opportunities: Fine art degree programs often provide students with opportunities to network with other artists, curators, and gallery owners, helping them to build valuable connections within the art world.
12. Experiential learning: Many fine art degree programs incorporate experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, studio visits, and field trips, providing students with hands-on experience in the art world.
13. Portfolio development: Pursuing a fine art degree allows students to develop a strong portfolio of their work, which can be invaluable when seeking employment or applying to graduate school.
14. Transferable skills: Many of the skills developed through a fine art degree program, such as creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking, are transferable to other fields and can be valuable in a wide range of careers.
15. Cultural enrichment: Fine art degree programs can enrich the cultural landscape of universities by providing students with opportunities to attend art exhibitions, performances, and other cultural events.
16. Social engagement: Fine art degree programs can also foster social engagement and community involvement, as students often work collaboratively on community art projects and engage with local cultural organizations.
17. Intellectual stimulation: Studying fine art can be intellectually stimulating and rewarding, as students explore new ideas, challenge their assumptions, and engage with complex artistic concepts.
18. Personal fulfillment: Pursuing a fine art degree can also provide students with a sense of personal fulfillment and satisfaction, as they create artwork that reflects their own unique perspectives and experiences.
19. Academic diversity: Offering a fine art degree program can help universities diversify their academic offerings and attract students who are interested in pursuing artistic careers.
20. Prestige: Universities with strong fine art programs can gain prestige and recognition within the art world, attracting top students and faculty and enhancing the reputation of the institution as a whole.
21. Students are given more flexibility in choosing subjects that suit their interests and objectives.
22. The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design Art combines three pathways in Interaction Design, Product Design and Visual Communication into an integrated program in Design.
23. The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Media Art combines four pathways in Animation, Game, Filmmaking, and Photography into an integrated program in Media.
24. The compulsory 10-week internship stint will augment students’ training, and they will have the opportunity to intern at top companies, studios, and production houses.
25. Students are required to complete an interdisciplinary seminar module with invited practicing artists and designers to share their knowledge, views, and insights.
26. Students can become interdisciplinary artists who progress with the global evolution of fine arts.
27. The study of Fine Arts encourages continual debate, questioning, exploration, and interrogating set perspectives.
28. Contemporary fine art practice constantly negotiates with its surroundings and histories in a subversive and ever-changing role.
29. The program situates itself at the crossroads of contemporary Western and Asian cultures, acknowledging the demands of different worldviews.
30. The curriculum encourages diversity and a broad-based inquiry into contemporary art practices.
31. The program encourages students to delve into possible collaborations with other disciplines such as Science, Humanities and Technology.
32. Through a myriad of materials and methodologies, students will develop capabilities to become an interdisciplinary artist who is resourceful in the articulation of their research interest.
33. Students will be able to engage and approach their professional practice in a reflective and analytical manner, and manifest their unique point of view toward art, culture and society.
34. Students can blaze a trail as young art professionals in Singapore and the region, growing in their artistic journey and capacity to contribute meaningfully to our rich cultural repository.
35. Students will develop the knowledge and skills to be a holistic, reflective, and engaged art practitioner in the contemporary world.
36. The program is backed by the world-renowned University of the Arts London (UAL), which will sharpen students’ artistic skills and sensibilities while they learn to work both collaboratively and independently on art practices across disciplines.
37. Students will spend a portion of their degree abroad in the United Kingdom, promoting global exposure.
38. Students will be immersed in a state-of-the-art studio environment, supported by archival practices and professional placements.
39. BFA students are prepared for several entry-level roles in areas related to the creative arts, including graphic designers, UX designers, video producers, photographers, web designers, teachers, and culture writers.
40. BFA majors are heavily creative or require more technical development, such as film editing or game design, providing a wide range of options to students pursuing the degree.
41. You will learn how to work independently and collaboratively, which are important skills in any industry.
42. The BFA program offers opportunities for networking and collaboration with other artists and professionals in the field.
43. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment that are essential for creating high-quality artwork.
44. The BFA degree is recognized as a respected credential in the creative arts industry.
45. The degree is a gateway to a career in the arts and can lead to opportunities to work in galleries, museums, and other cultural institutions.
46. The degree can also lead to opportunities to work in design, advertising, and other creative industries.
47. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop a unique artistic voice that sets you apart from other artists.
48. You will learn how to think critically and reflectively, which are essential skills in any profession.
49. The BFA program encourages students to explore new media and techniques, which can broaden their artistic horizons and open up new creative possibilities.
50. You will have opportunities to showcase your work in exhibitions, which can help you build a reputation as an artist.
51. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop your skills in time management, organization, and self-discipline, which are essential skills in any profession.
52. You will have access to experienced and knowledgeable faculty who can provide guidance and mentorship.
53. The BFA program offers opportunities to study abroad, which can broaden your horizons and expose you to new cultures and artistic traditions.
54. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop your skills in communication and collaboration, which are essential skills in any profession.
55. You will have opportunities to engage with the wider community through public exhibitions and other events.
56. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop your skills in problem-solving and critical thinking, which are essential skills in any profession.
57. The BFA program offers opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary projects, which can help you develop your skills in collaboration and creative problem-solving.
58. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop your skills in research and analysis, which are essential skills in any profession.
59. You will have access to a diverse range of artistic disciplines, which can broaden your artistic horizons and expose you to new techniques and styles.
60. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop your skills in leadership and teamwork, which are essential skills in any profession.
61. The BFA program offers opportunities to participate in workshops and masterclasses, which can help you develop your skills in specific techniques and media.
62. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop your skills in presentation and public speaking, which are essential skills in any profession.
63. You will have access to a diverse range of creative resources, including libraries, archives, and other research materials.
64. The BFA program offers opportunities to engage with the wider artistic community, including other artists, curators, and critics.
65. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop your skills in digital media and technology, which are essential skills in any profession.
66. You will have opportunities to participate in internships and other work experience programs, which can provide valuable professional experience.
67. The BFA program offers opportunities to learn about the business side of the arts, including marketing, sales, and entrepreneurship.
68. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop your skills in entrepreneurship and innovation, which are essential skills in any profession.
69. You will have opportunities to participate in collaborative projects with other students and faculty, which can provide valuable networking opportunities.
70. Pursuing a BFA can help you develop your skills in creative problem-solving, which are essential skills
71. BFA degrees provide students with the opportunity to develop a strong creative voice and a unique artistic style.
72. They offer students the chance to specialize in a particular area of art, such as painting, sculpture, or digital media.
73. BFA degrees are highly practical and hands-on, allowing students to gain experience working with a wide range of media.
74. They provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers as professional artists, designers, and creators.
75. BFA programs often offer students the chance to collaborate with other artists and designers, helping to foster a sense of community and collaboration.
76. BFA programs often provide students with access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, including specialized software, tools, and equipment.
77. They provide students with the opportunity to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that can be applied to a wide range of fields.
78. BFA programs often include courses in art history, theory, and criticism, helping students to develop a deeper understanding of the art world and its historical and cultural context.
79. They provide students with the opportunity to gain experience working with clients and developing projects for real-world applications.
80. BFA degrees help students to develop strong communication and presentation skills that can be applied to a wide range of careers.
81. BFA degrees provide students with the opportunity to explore their own interests and passions in depth, and to develop a unique artistic vision.
82. BFA programs often provide students with the opportunity to participate in exhibitions, shows, and other public events, helping to build their professional portfolios and networks.
83. BFA programs often include courses in business and entrepreneurship, helping students to develop the skills needed to succeed as independent artists and designers.
84. BFA programs often provide students with opportunities to travel and study abroad, helping to broaden their horizons and gain exposure to new cultures and ideas.
85. BFA programs often include courses in marketing and branding, helping students to develop their personal brands and market their work effectively.
86. BFA degrees provide students with the opportunity to develop a strong work ethic and the discipline needed to succeed as a professional artist or designer.
87. BFA programs often provide students with opportunities to work on collaborative projects with other students and faculty, helping to build their teamwork skills.
88. BFA degrees provide students with the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of the creative process and the role of art in society.
89. BFA programs often include courses in art education, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to teach art in schools and other settings.
90. BFA degrees provide students with the opportunity to develop a strong sense of personal identity and a deep connection to their work.
91. BFA programs often provide students with access to internships and other professional development opportunities, helping to prepare them for careers after graduation.
92. BFA programs often provide students with access to visiting artists and designers, providing them with exposure to a wide range of creative perspectives.
93. BFA degrees provide students with the opportunity to develop their own artistic voice and to express their ideas and emotions in a powerful and meaningful way.
94. BFA programs often provide students with opportunities to participate in community outreach and service projects, helping to build their leadership and teamwork skills.
95. BFA degrees provide students with the opportunity to develop their own artistic style and to express themselves in a wide range of media.
96. BFA programs often provide students with access to career services and other resources that can help them find employment after graduation.
97. BFA programs often provide students with opportunities to participate in workshops, seminars, and other professional development events, helping to build their skills and knowledge.
98. BFA degrees provide opportunities for students to explore their creativity and develop their own artistic voice.
99. BFA degrees help students build a strong portfolio of their work, which is essential in many creative industries.
100. BFA degrees often include opportunities for students to exhibit their work publicly, providing valuable exposure and experience.
101. BFA degrees can help students build professional networks with fellow students, alumni, and faculty.
102. BFA degrees can prepare students for further education, such as graduate school or specialized training programs.
103. BFA degrees can lead to careers in a variety of fields, including visual arts, film, theater, advertising, and more.
104. BFA degrees can help students develop skills that are highly valued in today’s job market, such as creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
105. BFA degrees can help students build confidence and develop a strong work ethic through rigorous coursework and studio practice.
106. BFA degrees can foster a sense of community and camaraderie among students who share a passion for the arts.
107. BFA degrees can help students develop a deeper appreciation for the arts and their role in society.
108. BFA degrees can provide students with opportunities to work on collaborative projects and develop teamwork skills.
109. BFA degrees can help students learn how to give and receive constructive feedback, a skill that is valuable in any profession.
110. BFA degrees can help students develop their communication skills, including the ability to articulate their artistic vision to others.
111. BFA degrees can provide students with opportunities to learn about the history and cultural significance of the arts.
112. BFA degrees can help students develop a lifelong love of learning and a curiosity about the world around them.

Kamloops Media Coverage

• Thompson Rivers University is phasing out its undergraduate fine arts program https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/thompson-rivers-university-bachelor-of-fine-arts-cancellation-1.6825343
• TRU backtracks on BFA closure, says program will instead undergo review https://www.castanetkamloops.net/news/Kamloops/423938/TRU-backtracks-on-BFA-closure-says-program-will-instead-undergo-review
• Petition launched to save TRU Bachelor of Fine Arts program https://www.radionl.com/2023/04/25/102043/
• TRU says final decision on fine arts program not yet made https://www.kamloopsthisweek.com/local-news/tru-says-final-decision-on-fine-arts-program-not-yet-made-6925467
• TRU professors trying to save recently cancelled Bachelor of Fine Arts program with petition https://cfjctoday.com/2023/04/26/tru-professors-trying-to-save-recently-cancelled-bachelor-of-fine-arts-program-with-petition/
• TRU to phase out bachelor of fine arts program over next three years https://www.castanetkamloops.net/news/Kamloops/423104/TRU-to-phase-out-bachelor-of-fine-arts-program-over-next-three-years
• Save the BFA at Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, B​.​C. https://www.change.org/p/save-the-bfa-at-thompson-rivers-university-kamloops-b-c
• ROTHENBURGER: Decision to cut TRU’s Fine Arts program is a blow to city’s ambitions https://cfjctoday.com/2023/04/26/rothenburger-decision-to-cut-trus-fine-arts-program-is-a-blow-to-citys-ambitions/
• TRU Fine Arts Program may survive: Associate Professor of Visual Arts https://www.radionl.com/2023/04/27/tru-bachelor-of-fine-arts-program-may-still-survive-associate-professor-of-visual-arts/
• Enrolment numbers, cost cited as reasons for ending fine arts program at TRU https://www.kamloopsthisweek.com/local-news/enrolment-numbers-cost-cited-as-reasons-for-ending-fine-arts-program-at-tru-6907572
• Bachelor of Fine Arts program not cancelled but under review: TRU https://cfjctoday.com/2023/04/28/bachelor-of-fine-arts-program-not-cancelled-but-under-review-tru/
• TRU says decision to eliminate Bachelor of Fine Arts program not finalized https://www.radionl.com/2023/04/28/102256/
• ‘Worried for the future of the art community’; TRU students concerned over cancellation of fine arts program https://cfjctoday.com/2023/04/26/worried-for-the-future-of-the-art-community-tru-students-concerned-over-cancellation-of-fine-arts-program/

I plan to share a brief speech at TRU Senate

Dear senators, I ask you – do not kill the arts by closing down the BFA program at TRU.

The arts are the heart and soul of our society. Art reflects and reveals the diverse beauty in humanity; it builds empathy, inspires change, and gives voice to the voiceless. When we cut fine arts education and programs, we aren’t just taking away classes – we are stripping away opportunities for students to grow as creative, compassionate, and thoughtful leaders. We are sacrificing stories that need to be told and progress that needs to be made.

The BFA program here is so much more than just training in aesthetics and techniques. It’s a close-knit community where students push boundaries, take risks, and find their voices. It’s a support system where they learn perseverance and resilience. It’s a guide into unfamiliar but critical conversations about diversity, justice, and the human experience. The skills and mindsets students develop in this program transfer far beyond the canvas or stage. We’ve seen BFA graduates go on to become educators, activists, innovators, and changemakers.

Without this program, talented young artists across the region would lose access to quality arts education that can transform their futures. The diversity of perspectives and social impact fostered through the arts would diminish. We’d be left without plays that connect us, paintings that awaken us, films that unite us, and the sounds that resonate with our shared humanity.

Respected senators, I urge you not to silence the voices of the next generation of creators and leaders. Show faith in the power of arts to uplift communities and bring people together. Keep hope alive for those who will one day move audiences through beauty and truth. Do not kill the arts – do anything possible in your powers today to keep the BFA program alive.

Thank you for your time.

With respect

Sasha