Emily Pawlowski | A&E Editor
Taylor University has many artists, but few opportunities for everyone to present their projects.
The Metcalf Open is a way to balance out that issue. On Friday, April 26, the gallery opened, sharing student works with the whole campus. Everything from traditional illustrations to clay sculptures to printed comics were on display.
"Overall, the Metcalf Open is a chance for us to celebrate the fruits of our countless hours in Metcalf and our tireless efforts to make work that we are proud of," junior Erica Bell said.
Students of all majors were invited to submit pieces, at the price of one dollar per submission. Many students took the chance to share projects they worked on for a class, or to challenge themselves by creating something completely new.
For those who have participated in past open galleries, this was a way to track their artistic growth.
"Last year I submitted two pieces but neither got in, so it's nice to have that sense of progression by having pieces in the show this year," junior Mary Newenhisen said.
This year, Newenhisen has four pieces on display in the show. She appreciated the chance to share with others outside of the classes she created the art for.
Newenhisen was one of many students to take advantage of the chance to show off projects from other classes. Other pieces included "Knowledge is Power," by sophomore Kaitlyn Gillenwater, previously seen in the library with the other colossal print projects. A table held several graphic illustrations created by students as research papers for History of Graphic Art.
Pieces created for other artistic endeavors were also included. "A Cow as White as Snow," by junior Evangeline Bouw, was the prop originally created for the Theatre production of "Into the Woods."
These were but a few of the many projects students submitted to the show, proud of their classwork or the products of their free time.
"It was amazing to see how much effort so many artists put into this exhibit," Newenhisen said. "Metcalf was buzzing with preparation the whole weekend before submissions for the show."
Even the logo itself was the product of a student submission. Junior Chloe Thompson was asked to design the logo, wall vinyl and posters for the show.
Inspired by typography and bold colors, Thompson tried to create a unique look that matched the purpose of the show.
"The warped and organic letters made the logo feel less rigid and structured, which advertised the show as more of a fun / enjoyable art show for all students instead of a strict, formal art show for only art majors," Thompson said.
The show will be on display for another week, until May 9. Students are invited to see the work of their peers, and consider submitting their own pieces at next year's show.
