Missouri State University’s Department of Art and Design is excited to welcome Rebecca Oh as a new faculty member.

“We’re excited to add another vibrant perspective to our studio faculty,” said Dr. Mitzi Kirkland-Ives, interim department head of art and design.

Oh’s professional work combines painting and sculpture to explore questions of identity, belonging and personal autonomy within cultural and social frameworks. Often, her art bridges personal experience with larger conversations, she explained.

“These explorations have taught me the value of process, experimentation and risk-taking, which are lessons I bring to the classroom,” Oh said.

Teaching emphasizes creativity and critical thinking

In her teaching, Oh said she emphasizes critical thinking and creativity to build inclusive, student-centered spaces. She encourages students to take risks, develop their voices and see their art as a way to engage with the world around them.

“I hope to bring a spirit of openness, curiosity and dialogue to both the university and the surrounding community,” she said.

Oh has already noticed how students’ different majors shape their perspectives in class. She enjoys those differences and sees opportunities for collaboration across areas of study. That mix of voices, she said, strengthens the learning experience and makes the department a more dynamic place.

Looking ahead, Oh remains focused on adjusting to her first year at Missouri State. She hopes to stay intentional with both her teaching and her studio practice while settling into the community.

 

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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.