The spring 2024 BFA in Art Exhibition was on view at Brick City Gallery April 22-May 3 and for First Friday Art Walk May 3.

The works of sixteen seniors in the BFA in Art program were selected for the exhibit.

“This is an exciting time of year with students’ celebrating their educational successes—a time for reflection and congratulations,” said Vonda Yarberry, head of the Department of Art and Design.

Artists express gratitude for value of BFA program

Two of the exhibitors, Roman Herries and Erin Hainline, discussed aspects of their experience in the BFA program that were especially meaningful to them.

Roman Herries

Senior Roman Herries’ portfolio reflected their emphasis in drawing.

For Herries, the biggest challenge to prepare for the exhibit was to choose which items for display.

“I spent a lot of time focusing and constraining what I wanted to do until I was left with only the most important parts of my project,” they said. “It was difficult but an important lesson to learn.”

Herries expressed gratitude for their learning experience within the BFA in art program.

“This program changed the way I see myself and the world,” they said. “This place is where I learned the importance of taking risks and the value of failure.”

Erin Hainline

Senior Erin Hainline’s portfolio reflected her emphasis in photography.

For her project, she photographed important women in her life. For each portrait, Hainline carefully chose a background that amplified the characteristics she admires about the subject.

Hainline highlighted how the BFA program supports friendships as well as creates professional opportunities

“Be open to friendships and connections,” she said. “Students and professors want the best for you. Know that you have access to networking experiences.”

Spring 2024 BFA in Art student exhibitors

Abby Baechle, Ashley Brake, Malayna Bryan, Anna Butler, Dayton Chambers, Destiny Drake, Rebecca Dugan, Christopher Elkins, Erin Hainline, Sydni Harkins, Roman Herries, Ethan Holman, Justin Mayhew, Alexandra Miller, Hannah Vancour and Elliot Wheat.

The Brick City Gallery is located at 215 West Mill Street. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Email BrickCityGalleries@MissouriState.edu for more information.

Photos provided by Vonda Yarberry.

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.