Centers & Initiatives
Center for Art Research and Education
The Center for Art Research and Education (CARE) enhances the visual culture of SHSU and our surrounding communities. We support faculty research, art education, visiting artists, design projects, and hands-on opportunities that connect students and faculty with the community through meaningful creative work.
CARE Projects
Explore community-centered initiatives—ranging from design services and exhibitions to educator intensives and artist residencies—that create real-world impact for SHSU and beyond.
Art Against the Odds is a community-based project created in partnership with the Hospitality House. It provides families and children of incarcerated individuals with a safe, non-verbal way to express themselves through art. The program offers a creative outlet and respite from daily stress while building connections through the act of making.
This week-long retreat is designed for K–12 art educators. The Summer Intensive re-energizes teachers by supporting their own creative practice while introducing new ideas, materials, and inspiration to take back into their classrooms.
The Idea Factory is a student-run graphic design agency that provides design services to local organizations and businesses. Under faculty mentorship, Graphic Design students gain professional experience through internships while the agency offers affordable or pro bono services to non-profit clients.
Located in downtown Huntsville, the SHSU Student Satellite Gallery connects students and alumni with the community through exhibitions. The gallery showcases student work throughout the academic year, creating opportunities for engagement and professional growth.
The Collection of Texas Art features works from the University Art Collection by artists who have lived in Texas, with an emphasis on connections to Huntsville and Walker County. It serves as a resource for research, documents regional history, and highlights the cultural spirit of the community.
This program invites artists working in social practice to create collaborative projects with the Huntsville community. Residencies may last up to three years and can include teaching, lectures, and workshops within the Department of Art and MFA in Art and Social Practice program.