Several photography students in Missouri State University’s Department of Art and Design traveled to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City Oct. 2.

About 20 students and four faculty were guided through two exhibitions by Curator of Photography Dr. April Watson, who discussed the themes, ideas and history of the photographs in addition to the photographers’ backgrounds.

According to their website, the Nelson-Atkins Museum is home to one of the largest photography collections in the country. After the Hallmark Photographic Collection gifted 6,500 photographic works by 900 artists to the museum in 2005, the Nelson-Atkins dedicated the Bloch wing of the museum to showcase this still growing collection.

Field trip described as “impactful”

Professor of photography Gwen Walstrand organized the event and elaborated on the importance of the experience.

“Seeing so many important pieces in person, which students may previously have only seen in reproductions, allows for a much more profound impact,” Walstrand said. “Both exhibitions featured examples by photographers who have contributed to the history of art.”

“Dr. Watson was able to illuminate the significance of the historical and contemporary work with enthusiasm and a researcher’s expertise,” Walstrand added.

“I loved seeing the exhibit of the female artist, Evelyn Hofer, who wasn’t well known in her time,” said photography student Emery Wilcoxon. “To be able to see the artist get that recognition now was so impactful not only for me but for everyone in the group.”

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News submitted 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.