Andi Steele

Andi Steele is a Professor of Sculpture and the Chair of the Department of Art & Art History. She has been teaching at UNCW for 20 years, refining and expanding the sculpture program. Her teaching philosophy is based on three main principles: provide a strong foundation in technique and material manipulation, support the development of conceptually creative ideas, and encourage a collaborative classroom community.

The sculpture program covers a wide range of techniques, processes, and materials—a reflection of Steele’s education and research path. Steele graduated from the University of South Carolina with a BFA in Studio Art, spent two years as a Core Fellow at Penland School of Craft studying blacksmithing and papermaking, and received her MFA in Sculpture from the University of Georgia.

Steele’s research explores the effect of interactive sculptures and installations on spatial and social relationships. She uses a variety of materials from recycled fiber to forged steel. She chooses the material based on the interaction, and the visceral associations we have with materials that affect the visual and conceptual understanding of the work.

Steele has exhibited her work for over 25 years, most recently at Women House Amsterdam, NDSMFuse (NL), Sovereign, McColl Center (NC), Inquestigation: Women at the Intersections of Art+Science, Monmouth Museum (NJ), and The Best of Women, Stola Contemporary Gallery (IL).

Education

MFA in Sculpture, University of Georgia
Core Fellowship Program, Penland School of Craft
BFA in Studio Art, University of South Carolina

Specialization in Teaching

Traditional Sculptural Techniques: Metal fabrication, Carving, Mold Making / Casting
Non-traditional Sculptural Techniques: Papermaking, Fiber Construction, Installation, Interactive Sculpture
Public Art

Research Interests

Social and Spatial Relationships
Blacksmithing / Metal Fabrication
Interactive / Wearable Sculpture
Fiber Construction
Site-specific Installation
Papermaking

Professional Service

President / Founder, Women's Caucus for Art Carolinas. 2020-Present.
Board Member, No Boundaries International Art Residency. 2020-2025.
President, Tri State Sculptors. 2019-2022. Vice President, 2016-2019.
Board Member, Creative Wilmington. 2006-2010.

Honors & Awards

Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching, UNC System. 2020.
Chancellor's Teaching Excellence Award, UNCW. 2018.
Discere Aude Award, UNCW. 2013.