Lee University will host two Senior Art Showcases from April 1–20 in the Fine Arts Gallery, located in Squires Library, and the Mayfield Gallery, located in the Mayfield Annex, both on Lee’s campus. An opening reception for the Fine Arts Gallery will take place Thursday, April 9, from 5–6 p.m., and a reception for the Mayfield Gallery showcase will be held Thursday, April 16, from 5–6 p.m.
 
“I am so excited for our senior shows this spring because it will be the first time we have two full shows running at the same time,” said Victoria Phillips, visiting assistant professor of art. “By utilizing both of our gallery spaces, we are able to give our students more exposure and provide additional time for family and friends to see the work in person. We are so proud of our students and look forward to celebrating their achievements.”
 
The showcases will display original bodies of thematic work from graduating art students. The artists’ statements will be posted with each work to give viewers a sense of the artist’s vision and methods.
 
Students with work on display include Justin Gilliam, Nick Lu, Leah Marrero, Charis Moffitt, Anna Nyberg, and Ann Rader.  
 
“Much of my work is inspired by images rich in iconography and storytelling,” said Moffitt. “I focus on hands through the medium of watercolor to explore how humans have the potential to treat one another. In these paintings, I examine what my own hands are capable of and ultimately surrender them to Jesus to do His will, directing the world back to His glory through an imperfect vessel.”

Moffitt has five watercolor paintings on display. 

Marrero’s work utilizes traditional linocut printmaking, which is the process of carving rubber blocks to create an image, covering it in ink, and pressing it onto paper to reveal an image, investigating common themes of life through the symbolism of flowers.
 
“Each moment we experience throughout life comes together piece by piece to form the larger story of who we are,” said Marrero. “Flowers often mark meaningful moments, from birthdays to weddings and even funerals. I want the viewer to reflect on both the process and the symbol that carries the weight of an entire lifetime.”

Marrero has 12 pieces in this series, and all are on display, representative of the 12 months in a year.

The Senior Art Shows are free and open to the public. The Squires Fine Arts Gallery is open during regular operating hours of the library, which can be found at leeuniversity.libguides.com/homepage.  The Mayfield Gallery is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about the showcases or Lee’s art program, contact Phillips at [email protected].