Last year marked the launch of an exciting new program that allows students and others throughout the U.Va. community to enjoy a look inside the unique creative processes of some of the world’s most fascinating artists. The Ruffin Distinguished Artist-in-Residence Program, established in 2012 by the Peter B. and Adeline W. Ruffin Foundation, created an annual teaching position designed to bring artists of international stature to the University on a rotating basis. Each artist selected offers a series of unique classes, gives a public lecture and has an exhibit or screening of his or her work for the university community. In addition, the Ruffin Artist in Residence offers a variety of opportunities for personal interaction with distinguished majors in the Studio Art program, including seminars and critiques.

The inaugural Ruffin Distinguished Artist-in-Residence was Cindy Bernard. Best known for her photographs and projections that explore the relationship between cinema, memory and landscape, Bernard is also known for her strong interest in the spaces and production of social exchange and the relation of art and sound. Following her in 2014-15 is Claude Michelle Wampler, an artist and performer whose continual challenging of the traditional artist/audience boundaries have earned her raves around the world.
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