The End of an Era in Art Education: The Closure of Berenstain Bears and University of the Arts

Last week, the worlds of art and education were shaken by unexpected news: the University of the Arts closed its doors to students due to long-standing financial difficulties and declining enrollments. This closure was a shock not only to current students and faculty but also to the alumni of the school.

Stan and Jan Berenstain, creators of the Berenstain Bears series, once walked the halls of this university and developed their art and illustration skills there. The children’s book series has taught moral lessons and life skills to millions of children worldwide. Their son, Mike Berenstain, also studied there in the 1970s and continues to write and illustrate Berenstain Bears books today. Mike described the university’s closure as “the most significant part of my life” and considered it a loss.

The story of Stan and Jan Berenstain symbolizes the power of art and creativity. Both attended the Philadelphia Museum and School of Industrial Arts (later known as the University of the Arts) on scholarships in 1941 and fell in love with each other and with art. Their passion inspired the creation of the beloved bear family that won the hearts of millions of children and families.

Despite the challenges of wartime America, Stan and Jan Berenstain had the opportunity to receive an art education, which laid the foundation for their future success. This allowed them to develop their creativity and eventually create the Berenstain Bears. Their works have become classics of children’s literature and are still loved by new generations.

The story of the Berenstain family highlights the transformative power of art education on individuals. Their successes prove that art is not just a form of personal expression but also plays a significant role in transmitting societal values and cultural heritage.

The sudden closure of the school has left many students and faculty members facing an uncertain future. The university administration is working to develop transfer pathways with partner institutions such as Temple University, Drexel University, and Moore College of Art and Design to ensure students can continue their education uninterrupted.

The closure represents not just the end of an educational institution but also the end of a legacy of art and creativity. The story of the Berenstain family shows how important art education is not only for individual careers but also for the cultural richness of society.

The innocence and educational stories of the Berenstain Bears may signify the end of an era with the closure of the University of the Arts. However, the legacy of Stan and Jan Berenstain and the characters they created continue to hold a significant place in the lives of children and families around the world.