A number of student artists received recognition for their work last Thursday at the opening gala of the 78th Annual Student Art Show. Hosted by The Wisconsin Union Directorate Art Committee, the show highlights the talents of undergraduate and graduate-level artists.
Professional quality paintings and prints, as well as a substantial number of finely crafted three-dimensional works in ceramics and metal prove that Madison has much to offer the art world.
We didn't get as many submissions as we have in past years, but this year's were all of such high caliber that it made the jurors' jobs much more difficult,\ Art Committe Director Christena Gunther said. ""What was surprising was the amount of 3-D pieces. We used all the pedestals we had available, which I think speaks to the talent of UW's sculpture department.""
Guest jurors Terrance Coffman and Jill Sebastian of the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design were likewise impressed.
""There was a wide range of talent that included emerging abilities and mature understandings,"" Coffman said in his juror's statement.
Along with cash prizes given by the Art Committee, the jurors selected pieces to be honored with the Class of 1930 Trust Fund and the Porter Butts Art Purchase Award. Focusing on originality and technical skill, these awards give students the opportunity to display their artwork as a part of the Union's permanent selection alongside Diego Rivera, Bruce Nauman, and many other big-name artists.
""The Union's facilities lend an air of prestige to student artists that they may not be able to find otherwise,"" Gunther said. ""The Student Art Show has been around since 1928. It's a good legacy to build on.""
Wendy Mironov, Art Committee member and winner of the Sally Owen Marshall Best of Show Award for her untitled ceramics piece, agreed. ""It's nice to share my artwork, not just keep it to myself.""
The Student Art Show will be displayed through May 5th in the Porter Butts and Class of 1925 Galleries on the second floor of Memorial Union.
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