Juried Art Exhibition Held Until Feb. 24

The University of West Georgia Department of Art, History and Philosophy is holding its annual Juried Art Exhibition from January 27- February 24. The exhibit features original art created by UWG students for display and purchase.

            A long standing tradition for over 20 years, the Juried Art Exhibition gives students the opportunity in creation and curation of their art. Students submitted their work in November 2021, before being chosen for the exhibit. This year’s juror, Atlanta artist Carl Linstrum, chose 11 pieces which included winners in 2D, 3D and merit based awards during the reception held on February 3.

            Winners included: Best in Show 2D, Hannah Swofford and Best in Show 3D, Natalie Moreno. In 2D, Cassidy Thomas, Andrew Hussey and Nancy Vu took home first, second and third. For the 3D category, Eve Olsen, Bethany Blackaman and Abigail Lummus won first, second and third place. Merit prize winners Anndirah Abdur-Rahim, Katherine Slay and Alissa Brooks. 

            “This experience really prepares them to exhibit their work beyond the University in professional venues as well as prepare a portfolio to apply for grad school, grants, artist residencies and other opportunities,” said Senior Lecturer in the art program and Chair of the Gallery Committee, Stephanie Smith. “Students also have the opportunity to sell their work, which is very exciting.

“Students who enter the show gain experience in the professional presentation of their work,” continued Smith. “Both during the initial process for documenting and photographing the work so it looks its best and then if they are accepted they will frame or mount the work which students don’t always have in mind when creating, but serves to complete the work for viewing by an audience.”

Students will have several other opportunities to view artwork at UWG, including the “Home 2.0” student exhibit, which will feature student work at the Vault Gallery in Newnan on March 4-31. The exhibit is a second installment from the 2021 show “Home” and will feature work entailing the artist’s perception of what home is to them.