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Thursday, Feb. 9, 1:34 a.m.
Style & Culture

Student art exhibit showcases broad range of mediums, talent

Annual Student Art Exhibit celebrates opening, solid turnout

ADMIRING THE WORK - Matthew Johnstone admires the works of his peers at Friday night´s opening of the Student Art Exhibit at Carnegie Hall. The exhibit features art in a variety of mediums.
adrianne hess
ADMIRING THE WORK - Matthew Johnstone admires the works of his peers at Friday night´s opening of the Student Art Exhibit at Carnegie Hall. The exhibit features art in a variety of mediums.

Over 100 pieces of artwork were on display at this year’s Annual Student Art Exhibit, which opened this Friday night. One of the significant differences from previous years was the increase in the diversity of mediums and genres at the exhibition.

“The work in the exhibition encompasses all media represented in the department of art’s studio programs,” said Majo Kaleshian, the coordinator of this year’s exhibit.

The exhibit features works in drawing, printing, painting, photography, ceramics, sculpture, 2D- and 3D-design, new media and installation work. James Linehan, chair of the art department, noticed an increase in two art forms from previous years.

“There are more photographs and more digital prints, more activity in those areas,” he said.

Kaleshian also recognized the trend in the Student Exhibition. “The work in the Student Exhibitions is becoming more diverse and that both traditional and new forms will continue to be explored and shown,” he said.

Andrew Hurtt, who recieved two prizes at this year’s exhibit, also took note of the range of styles in the Student Exhibition. “The student shows are always some of the more interesting,” Hurtt said.

Jury awards were given out during the opening ceremony of the show. There were several awards presented that recognized achievements in various areas.

“I think each has a special meaning for the recipient,” Kaleshian said. “I know many of the students who received awards and know how hard they’ve worked and will continue to work.”

The overall reception of the opening of the Student Exhibition seemed to be positive. The exhibit contained works from over 60 artists. The crowd consisted of family, friends, students, faculty and general art enthusiasts.

“We got a good turnout,” Linehan said. “I’m pleased with the way it came out.”

Keleshian was happy with the vibrant atmosphere at the opening. “The Student Exhibition has one of the liveliest openings of the year,” he said.

Linehan also acknowledged the art department’s role in the exhibit. “The department really comes together for this, there is a good spirit in the department.”

Keleshian was not only pleased with the opening of the Student Exhibition, but also has high hopes for where the art department is headed.

“The department of art is growing at a fast pace, and the new facilities in the renovated Lord Hall, as well as the proposed new studio building, will give the faculty and students the necessary space to flourish,” he said.

The entire art department seemed to be excited about the prospect of the renovated Lord Hall. When Linehan spoke about the renovations and the proposed new studio, he was met with applause from the entire crowd.

The Student Art Exhibition opening reception was held on April 1 in the art department’s Carnegie Hall. The exhibit is running until Friday, May 6.