The purpose of this case study is to examine the nature of the teaching in the painting and drawing program at Florida State University. Aspects to be considered in this case study will include the philosophy of the program as represented in its written materials, the program's stated and practical education goals, and the program's teaching strategies and envisioned outcomes for undergraduate student as articulated and modeled by the permanent faculty. To best achieve its goals, this study has drawn profiles of the teaching of painting and drawing studio classes at one American university with particular emphasis on the context of the rationales and methods of instruction practiced by the permanent faculty. To further contextualize the findings and assumptions appropriate pertinent literature is integrated into the discussion. In that context, this study aimed to add to the currently limited body of qualitative research on teaching painting and drawing in higher education in Florida.