School of Fine Arts of Porto

The history of this institution goes back to the Drawing and Debux Class, begun in 1780 with the purpose of supporting the industries of the city of Porto. In 1802, the painter Vieira Portuense, on the occasion of the solemn opening of classes, which already had 120 students enrolled, Academy ?? This Drawing Class, thus trying to dignify the institution and calling for a more complete formation, supported by solid and diversified theoretical studies, as well as in artistic examples of quality. Nevertheless, the desired reform, contemplating a reinforcement of the number of teachers and disciplines offered, will happen only in 1836, with the creation of the Portuguese Academy of Fine Arts. The Academy offered classes in the areas of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture, and also a preparatory course of Drawing. Still in the 19th century, the Academy gave rise to the Portuguese School of Fine Arts and, from 1950, the Higher School of Fine Arts became known through years of great pedagogical and artistic prestige. Ceramic, stained glass, tapestry, engraving, stone, etc. workshops are created. In the 70's the course of Communication Design was started. In 1979 the architecture course gained autonomy integrating itself as Faculty of Architecture at the University of Porto. In 1994 the Porto Superior School of Fine Arts became part of the University of Porto and was designated by the Faculty of Fine Arts.