Community and Expression found at “By McMurry Hands” Art Exhibit
Art isn’t only for philosophers and critics; anyone can create something during their time off. Many create art without even realizing it when they cook or set a holiday table. In a community like a college campus, students and faculty must have ways to express themselves during times of need. At McMurry, this community space appears in the “By McMurry Hands” Exhibit in the Ryan Gallery, open to the public until October 23.
I was curious as to how the idea of this exhibit emerged. According to Jennifer Nichols, the Gallery Director and Instructor of Photography and Gallery Studies at McMurry, the idea for the event started in a calendar meeting in August. According to Nichols, “McMurry students, faculty, and staff are multi-talented individuals who often excel in crafts and arts other than their chosen careers.” I can personally attest to this statement. Although I do not study art, I love crafting in my free time, and from what I can see, it is no different for faculty and staff. There have been a multitude of times when professors help with a club’s bake sale and wow the students with their cooking skills or mention in class how they used to play an instrument or paint. The Art Faculty seems to have seen this same passion in students and staff alike, and according to Nichols, they thought it would be “ enlightening to see some of those creations displayed.”
No matter how old or experienced you are, creating art is a personal and human act. I was curious if, with such a diverse set of participating artists all at different points of their lives, Nichols noticed a common denominator among them. Nichols states, “Crochet and fabric arts seem to bridge the generation gap, and photography based on travel experiences is always popular.” I find it very beautiful that, through this exhibit, people of all different ages are able to express a common interest. My final question for Nichols was, “ Why do you believe it is important to have an outlet to create and display craft?” To which she highlighted the community by stating, “Sharing expertise in artistic presentations is a great way to get to know people!”
Not only does this exhibit allow people to express themselves, but also to get to know each other.
Considering creating art is so personal, sharing it with others is the best way to cultivate a community, which is exactly what the McMurry art department seems to be doing! If you want to check out the amazing work of our students, faculty, and staff, the last day to do so is October 23rd! Please check out the exhibit today at the Ryan Gallery!