Graduating seniors in the BFA in Art program are celebrating their artistic successes and growth in the BFA in Art Senior Exhibition.

Each semester graduating art students in the Department of Art and Design showcase their different media and concepts.

The works in the Fall 2023 exhibition include painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, drawing, animation and new media.

The exhibition is on view in Brick City Gallery Nov. 27-Dec. 8 and during the First Friday Art Walk Dec. 1 from 6-9 p.m.

Spotlight on Hanula, Marose reveals influences and ambitions

Two of the exhibitors, graduating seniors Christina Hanula and Shayna Marose, took a moment to reflect more on their work and their future plans.

Christina Hanula, emphasis in 3D studies

Inspired by personal struggles, Christina Hanula’s project speaks to feelings of vulnerability and the emotional depth of her past experiences.

“My own childhood had an immense amount of instability — from unsanitary, hoarded houses to neglect and parentification,” Hanula explained in her artist’s statement. “Seeing the stark contrast between my life and the lives of others, I’ve realized growing up in such an unstable environment has significantly shaped my identity and belief systems.”

Hanula’s works include ceramics and other materials.

Teaching remains lifelong goal

After graduation, Hanula plans to apply to graduate schools to accomplish her lifelong goal of becoming a ceramics teacher.

Hanula credited MSU’s art and design faculty for her success as a student.

“I will take [with me] the support I have received from faculty and staff,” she said. “They have been so understanding of life circumstances and were always there to support me in any way they could throughout my degree.”

Shayna Marose, emphasis in 3D studies and sculpture

Shayna Marose will be exhibiting a large sculptural installation that uses cast paper and concrete life preserver rings.

The piece is inspired by the question, “What happens when something takes the form of salvation?” and explores personal vulnerability and the subject of survival.

She hopes the piece will be interpreted on a universal level, where the audience can experience the subject for themselves.

Volunteer work inspired by sense of community

After graduation, Marose plans to volunteer at National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) as an art facilitator. She hopes to help people grapple with issues through artistic expression.

Marose noted how her time at MSU enhanced her sense of community.

“I will no doubt take [with me] the value of the artist community I have experienced at Missouri State, as well as the camaraderie of my classmates and professors,” she said.

BFA Fall 2023 Exhibitors

The following students are featured in this semester’s exhibition.

Ellen Aullbach, Brooke Buehler, Tanner Caruthers, Christina Hanula, Evan Harper, Jordan Loerch, Shayna Marose, John McKenzie, Destiny Pounds, Elizabeth Rex, Alexandra Shankle and Hannah Sparks.

Brick City Gallery is located at 215 W. Mill Street, Springfield MO 65806. Hours are Monday-Friday 11 a.m-6 p.m. Call 417-837-2330 for more information.

Learn more about opportunities in art and design

News written by Mariah Hunter and edited by the Reynolds College Communications team.

Hunter is a graduate assistant for the Department of Art and Design. She is working towards her master’s degree in writing at Missouri State University.