Araan Schmidt

Araan Schmidt is an Associate Professor of Art at Colorado Mesa University, located in the Fine Arts Building. His professional background includes teaching sculpture at Bowling Green State University, Alfred University, and Binghamton University. Raised in an academic art environment due to his father Julius Schmidt's 30-year tenure as a professor at the University of Iowa's Sculpture Department, Schmidt developed early expertise in material processes through hands-on experiences like iron pours.

• Education:
• MFA, University of Minnesota
• BFA, Kansas City Art Institute

His research focuses on sculpture and cast iron art, with exhibitions spanning venues such as Beth Allison Gallery (Kansas City) and Iron Bridge (England). He actively contributes to international cast iron art communities, participating in events like the Sloss National Historic Landmark Furnaces conference and the International Conference on Cast Iron Art in Kidewelly, Wales.

Awards:

• Open Studio Artist Fellowship (Franconia Sculpture Park, 2011)

Teaching & Engagement: Prior teaching roles at three institutions reflect his dedication to art education. His practice bridges traditional material experimentation with contemporary artistic expression.