By Brian Kirhagis

Well, it’s that time of year again. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the annual student art show is almost here. Some students of the University came last year, but some did not. Some students have been waiting since last April for the new show.

Whatever the case may be, one question still remains: Where will students be on April 27? If one does not know yet, then there is a secret that should be revealed. On Wednesday, April 27, the University’s Art Department will open the Student Art Show at 11:15 a.m. in Calkins Hall. The Rosenberg Gallery, as well as the majority of the first floor in Calkins Hall, will be covered with artwork in all different types of media. There will be paintings, drawings, sculptures and photographs. Projects in jewelry design, industrial design, graphic design and Web design will be included as well. In addition, there will be examples of new media design and multi-media videos will be streaming in the print-making room. Refreshments will be provided while live music fills the hallways. There will be hundreds of works on display for the audience to enjoy, and not only is it free, but at the opening, there will be a specially made, free piece of artwork for the first 51 people who come to the opening. The only requirement that students have to do is to bring themselves, an open mind and a curious eye.

“I think the art show is one of the most important things that the department does,” said Professor Laurie Fendrich. “It gives the students an opportunity to have their work exhibited in a professional manner, which is an integral part of being an artist.”

Last year’s show was a success and in many ways was the most successful to date. However, no matter how clean the University’s Art Department paints the hallways, how much work it includes and regardless of how it advertises the show, the department continues to run into one major problem: Where’s the University community? Where’s the curiosity about what goes on in the Art Department? Where’s the University’s support for the arts?

This year, the committee for the art show once again set out to make this year’s show another success. But it placed an increased emphasis on advertising the show. The committee decided that an article in the school newspaper might help to spread the word.

First and foremost, students are thankful for what this department has given them during their tenure at the University. It only seems appropriate that before they leave, that they should give something back.

“I have been part of the art show for the past four years, and I have seen it grow and expand steadily,” said senior Chris Frazzetta. “I think this year’s show will be the best yet.”

Secondly, the department wants people to come see what is going on in Calkins. Seniors in the department have been involved with it for four years and have seen the department grow and expand. They are proud to be a part of it. They are inspired everyday when they walk through the hallways and look at the projects on the walls. The students work hard and take pride in their work. As artists, they need an audience. After all, it is visual expression. What is music if no one hears it? And what is art if no one is there to see it?

Students’ college years are comprised of amazing experiences, some bad, some good and some in between. Regardless, it is important that they realize that they go through these years together, and many of the experiences that occur are similar. Take a break from the everyday stress of life. Take a walk across campus. Come to the opening on April 27. The department welcomes visitors, and is sure that they will not regret visiting.