Institute for Research in Art

Students at the School of Art & Art History can experience the interdisciplinary and collaborative work of the USF Institute for Research in Art (IRA). Part of the University of South Florida College of Design, Art & Performance, the IRA is dedicated to an international artists’ residency program that brings to the University and Tampa Bay community today’s most accomplished and influential artists working in the international art arena. Throughout the year it hosts free events open to students and the community.

The Institute for Research in Art houses four units:

• The USF Contemporary Art Museum presents numerous significant exhibitions of contemporary art and maintains the university’s art collection.
• Graphicstudio produces works by emerging and established contemporary artists from around the world.
• The Public Art program at USF creates site-responsive pieces that serve as informal gathering spaces on our campuses.
• Art in Health explores how the arts, healthcare and wellness intersect.

Exhibitions, collection development, publication of limited-edition graphics and sculpture multiples, commissioned public art works, interdisciplinary arts research, lectures, symposia, workshops and special events are designed to foster awareness about the role of contemporary artists in shaping our culture and society. Participating artists represent the full and diverse spectrum of contemporary art practice including, but not limited to, painting, sculpture, photography, electronic media, and and performance.