The Intergenerational Artistic Expression exhibition is on view at Missouri State University’s Cabot Gallery July 7-Aug. 1.

The Cabot Gallery is open Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. It is located at 215 West Mill Street, inside Brick City’s BRK3.

A special First Friday Art Walk reception for the exhibition will take place Aug. 1 from 6-8 p.m.

Exhibit inspired by interdisciplinary collaboration

The exhibit features a range of collaborative and individual artworks created by students from diverse backgrounds, including those over 62 and first-generation college students.

The exhibit grew from the inspiration of Diane Denton, a per course instructor in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Gerontology (SAG). Denton approached the department with a course she had developed, which led to an invitation to teach. Shortly after, SAG picked up the course, and the Department of Art and Design made space for it, leading to a creative collaboration.

Ultimately, the exhibition invites viewers to see others and themselves with compassion. Denton hopes visitors “see people’s humanity, find encouragement and be willing to challenge themselves. It’s about finding space for someone else’s story” and embracing our own.

Course helps students find common ground through art

The course, Intergenerational Artistic Expression (GER 397), fosters connection through creativity, Denton said.

“This class is about finding common ground through the stories we tell with our art,” she noted. “We leave judgment at the door and allow each person’s experience to guide their work.”

The structure of the course invites participants to explore both challenge and joy. The first eight weeks of the semester focus on pushing boundaries, while the second nine weeks center on discovery and delight.

As an example, Denton recalled one student’s particular breakthrough. This came from reimagining a black and white image of a therapy office into a colorful reflection of growth.

“It was the same cracked mirror but now in color,” Denton said. “The space hadn’t changed, but the person had. It was a visual metaphor for finding the tools to work through past trauma.”

One guest artist, Doug Steere, has a nerve condition and color blindness. He shared with the class the unique way he sees color through his paintings, offering students a powerful reminder that everyone’s experience and expression is valid.

His visit, like many moments throughout the course, emphasized the importance of telling our stories as we are, without judgment or expectation. These layered perspectives echo Denton’s belief that “in life, we don’t always know what’s going to happen,” but art allows us to process, share and connect.

Course offered for Fall 2025 semester

Intergenerational Artistic Expression (GER 397) is being offered this Fall 2025 semester. The course does not require any previous experience or prerequisites. Denton encourages students from all disciplines to enroll, as the class can be beneficial for anyone. First-generation students and students in the MSU62 program are especially encouraged to enroll.

About MSU62

MSU62 is a fee waiver program available to seniors who meet certain eligibility requirements.

An admission and registration information event for MSU62 is scheduled for Aug. 14.

Photos provided by the Department of Art and Design.

News edited by the Reynolds College Communications Team.

Sam Barnette is a writer for the Department of Art and Design. She holds an MFA in Dramatic Writing from Missouri State’s Department of Communication, Media, Journalism and Film. She is working toward an MS in Data Science and Analytic Storytelling at Truman State University.