Vonda Yarberry Archives - Page 2 of 3

Fall 2024 BFA in Art Senior Exhibition on view through Dec. 9

November 22, 2024 by Reynolds College

Missouri State University’s Department of Art and Design will host the Fall 2024 BFA in Art Senior Exhibition Nov. 18-22 and Dec. 6-9 in the Brick City Gallery. The exhibit will end with the First Friday Art Walk Dec. 6 from 6-9 p.m.

The Fall 2024 exhibition showcases the dedication and creativity of art and design’s graduating seniors. Visitors can engage with artworks from a wide range of disciplines, including drawing, sculpture, metals, new media and photography.

The department invites the public to join them in celebrating the achievements of these talented artists.

The Brick City Gallery is located at 215 West Mill Street. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Program transforms students into artists

“This group has a unique mix of interests and goals, which is reflected in the variety of media and themes in their work,” said Sarah Williams, professor of art and instructor for the BFA Studio Art capstone course. “For many, this is their first major exhibition, making it a truly pivotal moment in their artistic careers. It’s inspiring to see them bring together everything they’ve learned over the past years.”

Williams explained that the capstone experience is designed not only as a culmination of the students’ academic journey but also as preparation for future professional or personal growth. Students develop skills beyond their studio practice, such as time management, financial literacy and understanding the logistics of an exhibition, she said.

“This course helps them transition from being students to emerging artists ready to contribute to the world,” Williams said.

Art exhibit of sculptures resembling copper. — Some of the work of Amber Dudenhoeffer, a Fall 2024 BFA artist, on view in the exhibition.

Biennial Faculty Exhibition at Brick City Gallery Oct. 4-Nov. 1

October 6, 2024 by Reynolds College

The Biennial Faculty Exhibition, sponsored by Missouri State University’s Department of Art and Design, will be on display 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 4-Nov. 1 at the Brick City Gallery. The Exhibition Center will be closed Oct. 10-11 during MSU’s Fall Break.

Held every two years, the exhibition features a wide range of media and techniques. The artwork reflects the perspectives MSU’s art and design faculty bring to their diverse and innovative work. Visitors can view works that engage personal stories, reflections on the past, spirituality, environmental themes and much more.

“Students see their professors as active professionals, and so their points of view in the classroom take on a different significance,” said Vonda Yarberry, art and design department head. “Seeing works by professors in different disciplines [that] address similar topics deepens students’ awareness about multiple approaches to content and inspires students to try new things.”

The department’s gallery programming also strives to show students different approaches to professional art and design practice, which are highlighted in the numerous other exhibits offered throughout the year.

“Legacy: Celebrating the Art + Design Department” opens Oct. 4

October 6, 2024 by Reynolds College

This fall, the Carolla Arts Exhibition Center and the Department of Art and Design will host “Legacy: Celebrating the Art + Design Department,” an exhibition honoring all who helped shape the department’s history since it began.

A special reception will be held 6-9 p.m. Oct. 18 at the center, bringing together alumni, faculty, friends, and family.

The exhibit runs from Oct. 4-Nov. 1., coinciding with the university’s homecoming celebrations. The Exhibition Center will be closed Oct. 10-11 during MSU’s Fall Break.

“I am thrilled that so many faculty are planning to attend,” said Vonda Yarberry, art and design department head. “We’ve also heard from many alumni who are excited to meet up with their friends and former professors.”

Celebrating the legacies of Dr. Catherine Jolivette and Professor Keith Ekstam

September 16, 2024 by Reynolds College

Missouri State University has honored the distinguished careers of Dr. Catherine Jolivette and Professor Keith Ekstam with the title of emeritus faculty.

Jolivette and Ekstam recently retired from the Department of Art and Design.

“As Dr. Jolivette and Professor Ekstam step into retirement, their influence will continue to resonate within the university and beyond,” said Professor Vonda Yarberry, art and design department head. “Their dedication to their fields, commitment to education and contributions to the arts and humanities have set a high standard for future generations of scholars and artists.”

Dr. Fatih Benzer honored with Kenneth Marantz Fellows Award

May 9, 2024 by Lynn M. Lansdown

Associate professor of art Dr. Fatih Benzer was awarded the United States Society for Education through Art (USSEA) Kenneth Marantz Fellows Award at a ceremony in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in April.

The award recognizes “achievement in the field of art education and in service to USSEA that is exceptional in its depth and breadth,” according to the organization’s website.

Benzer has been a faculty member in the Department of Art and Design for eight years and a member of USSEA for over 20 years.

“I’m grateful that Dr. Benzer’s contributions to the field of art education are being recognized as significant by this important organization,” said Vonda Yarberry, head of the Department of Art and Design. “With all that he contributes to the field, this is a well-deserved and highly coveted national award.”

“What’s so beautiful is seeing how his work transforms our students right here at Missouri State University,” she added.

Benzer, who is also director of the Missouri Fine Arts Academy, continues to have a far-reaching influence on art education, according to Dean Shawn Wahl of the Judith Enyeart Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities.

“Dr. Benzer’s work in art education leadership and pre-college arts training will continue to have an impact across Missouri and beyond,” Wahl said. “This type of recognition is significant and well-deserved. I continue to be inspired by the life-changing work of faculty and staff across academic colleges at Missouri State University.”

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