USAO’ Art Career Lecture Series continues virtually March 30

The University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma Art Department will host its 2022 Art Career Lecture Series digitally via Zoom March 30 from 4–5 p.m. The event will feature alumni Jon Corea and Chad Eggar, who will discuss how they have each turned their undergraduate education into careers as working artists.

“The two speakers we have lined up this year provide fascinating examples of the different avenues open to USAO graduates,” said Jacquelyn Knapp, professor of art and art department coordinator. “We are extremely proud to welcome them back—even if only through Zoom—so they can share their wisdom with today’s students.”

A Purcell native, Corea earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a teacher certification from USAO. With a foundation in painting, love for many different forms of art, and passion for teaching others, he has taught art at his hometown high school since 2012. Corea also owns and operates Pinot’s Palette, a “paint and sip” business on Norman’s Main Street, where customers learn the fundamentals of painting in a fun environment.

Eggar completed his BFA at Science and Arts in 2017 before going on to earn a Master of Fine Arts in painting from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio in 2020. He returned to USAO to serve as creative services coordinator after graduation, and recently accepted a position as a graphic designer for OKC-based public relations firm Koch Communications. Eggar also is an adjunct professor at USAO and continues to work as an independent artist available for commissioned work. 

Held annually since 2009, the Art Career Lecture Series provides USAO students with invaluable insight into life after graduation. With speakers chosen from a range of artistic directions, these alumni share their stories, successes and mistakes to offer current students a wealth of information on how to navigate the competitive world of art.

For more information, contact Knapp at 405-574-1302 or jknapp@usao.edu.