Paul Dunlap's Shared Story
What Was Your Major and When Did You Graduate from UNG?
Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art, Photography.
I was a non-trad student in my late 20s when I realized I was dissatisfied with my career in healthcare, so I returned to art, which was a lifelong passion. I had to work a full-time job for most of my years here, so I was on the 6-year track, but I got there. I started in 1996 (under North Georgia College), graduated in 2001 (under NGCSU), and went off to UGA for grad school.
What is Your Background with UNG?
I finished grad school in Summer 2004 and was teaching here 10 days later. I knew for a long time that I wanted to teach here. I was an adjunct from 2004 - 2007, then got a job offer and have been here since. I hope to retire in 6-7 years, but time will tell. I have participated in numerous roles over the years, but being the National Association of Schools of Art and Design Accreditation (NASAD) Coordinator seems to be the one that stuck as I am about to start my 12th year in that role.
What is a Memorable Story About the Department You Would like to Share?
My life was really transformed as a student here thanks to the great faculty in art and other disciplines who believed in me and encouraged me. I think becoming our own department was important for our future. As Fine Arts, to include theatre, art and music, we just out grew that model. It didn't work as it should and so becoming our department gave our roots and branches room to spread and grow.
Earning NASAD accreditation is another important accomplishment. It helped us gain support to grow and realize our goals of serving more students, offering many more areas of study and further diversifying coursework and faculty.
Were You a Recipient of Any Student Scholarship or Award at UNG?
I was the recipient of the Hal B Rhodes III Outstanding Artist of the Year in 2001.
Why Should UNG’s Department of Visual Arts be Supported?
Art has long proven its value to the betterment of our lives. Our department has done a great job of continuing to support the more traditional creative disciplines while keeping an eye on the future with the addition of more and more digital media. The proof is in the pudding as we all watch enrollment skyrocketing in the digital realm with countless opportunities for employment after graduation.