Dan Van Tassell

Dan Van Tassell is a Professor of Art and Chair of the Art & Design Department at Emory & Henry College, affiliated with the McGlothlin Center for the Arts. He serves as a full-time faculty member and Curator, actively shaping the artistic and educational landscape of the department.

Education:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
• Masters of Fine Art in Ceramics, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville

Dan Van Tassell specializes in ceramics and mixed media sculpture, with a strong emphasis on studio art and contemporary sculptural practice. His work bridges traditional ceramic techniques with experimental forms, often exploring themes of nature, structure, and transformation. As an active exhibiting artist, he contributes to national dialogues in contemporary craft and sculpture.

Although no recent publications are listed, his inclusion in the prestigious '500 Series' book highlights the recognition of his sculptural work within the broader art community. His artistic output reflects a deep engagement with materiality and form.

Scientific and Artistic Recognition:

• Featured in '500 Ceramic Sculptures: Contemporary Practice, Singular Works'

Dan has curated significant exhibitions such as A Wing and A Prayer by Jennifer Angus and Portraits, Landscapes and Still Lifes, a collaboration supported by the McGlothlins. These efforts demonstrate leadership in academic curation and community engagement. While no grants are explicitly mentioned, his role as Curator and Department Chair suggests involvement in exhibition funding and academic programming.

He is deeply integrated into the McGlothlin Center for the Arts ecosystem, overseeing facilities such as the 3D Art Center and contributing to student exhibitions and partnerships with the William King Museum of Art. His work fosters a vibrant, practice-based learning environment.