GREENEVILLE – Students in Tusculum University’s art and design program will showcase the breadth and depth of skills they have developed during their studies when they present their work for public viewing in April.
Katelyn Brooks will hold her exhibition opening April 20.
Three students who are scheduled to graduate in May – Katelyn Brooks, Calista Hensley and Ashley Howell – will hold opening receptions for their senior capstone exhibitions from 5-7 p.m. in the Clem Allison Art Gallery, located in Annie Hogan Byrd Fine Arts Center. The dates are Thursday, April 13, for Howell; Thursday, April 20, for Brooks; and Thursday, April 27 for Hensley.
“All of our students have found their niche through their art studies but have also grown exponentially in their knowledge and practice of multiple media,” said Bill Bledsoe, assistant professor of art and design. “Attendees of these exhibitions will see how talented these students are and how well they have grasped the concepts inherent in quality art. Their work also illustrates the high standards and caliber of our art and design program.”
Each student will show 16 pieces during her exhibition. Eight pieces are classified as a directive and will have a cohesive theme in design quality and size. These items can be, but are not required to be, within the same medium. The remaining items will demonstrate each student’s knowledge of all other areas of studio art and visual communications.
Howell’s directive will focus on photography, sculpture and graphic design; Brooks’ will concentrate on a multimedia approach; and Hensley’s will center on wood cut printmaking.
Calista Hensley will hold her exhibition opening April 27.
Through this exhibition, visitors will see the proficiency of Howell, Brooks and Hensley in the following media:
- Drawing
- Graphic design
- Painting
- Photography
- Printmaking
- Sculpture
“These students should have the confidence level when they graduate from Tusculum that they can successfully compete for any position they seek,” Bledsoe said. “That is bolstered by their participation in an exhibition format that exceeds the requirements of other programs in the state. This structure distinguishes our program and ensures our students emerge with their degree as career-ready professionals.”
In February, Tusculum’s Center for the Arts reopened the gallery in Annie Hogan Byrd near the Marilyn duBrisk Theatre. The gallery is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday and during other special events at Annie Hogan Byrd.
Ashley Howell works on a drawing of one of the prophets from the Sistine Chapel.
“We’re really excited about this space and the opportunities it presents to highlight our students’ work and artistry of community members who will have shows here,” said Rouja Green, director of the Center for the Arts. “One of the nicest things about this location is that visitors are drawn to the art and able to give their full attention to an exhibit. It’s an intimate space and the art work is attractively displayed. This space also dovetails with the many other exciting arts programming that is taking place in the building.”
The student receptions are free and open to the public. The students will provide hors d’oeuvres and light refreshments. Those who are unable to attend the opening sessions are still welcome to visit the gallery when it is open to see the work on display for a week afterward. Brooks’ pieces will also be in the gallery during the Old Oak Festival Saturday, April 22, and Sunday, April 23.