Exhibits Take Art in “Different Directions” March 31
Unique perspectives and distinct disciplines will reveal the world through artistic eyes March 31 at the annual University of Science and Arts senior art exhibit. The art show, titled “Different Directions,” will feature the works of 15 bachelor of fine arts seniors from the spring semester, as well as seven seniors from 2005.
The USAO Art Gallery in Davis Hall will host the opening reception from 7-9 p.m. The event showcases artwork in multiple forms, from photography and digital imaging to pottery, oil and watercolor. One student’s display concentrates on metalworking as her artistic medium.
Michelle McClung is a sculptor from Laverne who specializes in metalsmithing and jewelry. Her small sterling silver and copper sculptures and jewelry include functional and nonfunctional pieces. In contrast, Oklahoma City artist Sara Garner paints with oil and watercolor. Using her words, her exhibits feature “imaginative birds of various sizes and personalities.”
Several seniors focus on photography for their primary artistic expression. Kelly Woodring of Anadarko said, “My work is abstract and real. I’ve taken advantage of photography as a medium to use to express my vision.” Shawnee senior Shelley Thompson’s degree in graphic design is reflected in her photographic and digital imagery pieces.
The artwork of Andrea Anderson, photography senior from Oklahoma City, includes what she calls “creative framing techniques,” in addition to her own photographs and digital images. Courtney Hunnicutt of Weatherford’s pottery, on the other hand, consists of brightly colored transitional abstract forms. She said her photography features “figures in unusual environments.”
Using a different kind of environment, Dovie Hines of Lindsay said her watercolors are “impressionistic … with a natural influence.” Norman photographer Ashley Winkle presents vivid color prints that contrast her own stark black and white photos. Art majors who graduated in the summer and fall classes of 2005 also are displaying original artwork in the exhibit.
The art show coincides with the annual spring art show, which will be held simultaneously upstairs in the third floor art gallery.
Over 150 entries will be included in the show from 35 art students of differing classifications.
Jacquelyn Knapp, assistant professor of art, said the spring show provides an outlet for art students at any stage in their education to display original pieces.
“The spring show is an excellent opportunity for students to place their work in a public arena where you can understand how they have assimilated information and spat it back out at you, both technically and conceptually,” she said. In addition, cash prizes are given for exhibits that illustrate a quality, professional presentation, excellent composition and visual interest.
The media types are as numerous as the entries. Art pieces include paintings, watercolors, drawings, ceramic pottery, photography and sculptures. Both art shows are free and open to the public. The exhibits remain open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through April 21.
USAO is known for its emphasis on art and art education. Every spring, its Montmartre Sidewalk Chalk Art Festival attracts thousands on the first Thursday in April. This year’s event is April 6. More information about that event or about the university is available at www.usao.edu.