The bachelor’s of fine arts (BFA) program is a rigorous art curriculum that includes concentrations in painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture, and the BFA installation is a landmark event for graduating students to see their work in a gallery. On display from April 17 to May 17, the exhibition shows the year-long work of seniors in the bachelor of fine arts program.
The exhibit is an event where the art community can come together—bachelor’s of fine arts students have been working hard to ensure everything is ready for the exhibit. “It feels like a culmination of all the work and time I’ve put in since coming here.” said Jeff Smith, a senior art studio bachelor of fine arts major. “It has felt like a blur preparing for this event but it will be truly great to see everyone’s work in a gallery setting.”
As the program starts to come to a close over the next year, this year’s event stirs up mixed emotions for the art community.
“The loss of the program is a big blow to the art community as a whole. There is a rich and diverse cast of artists that is being completely dismissed.” Smith said.
The bachelor of fine arts program was one of the casualties of the budget cuts, so this year’s event will be a change from the past.
“This year’s event is bitter-sweet. I have worked with these students since the beginning of their time here at SSU and have become close to them through their art. I am so proud of them [and] their growth and resilience,” said art studio lecturer Eileen Parent. “As emerging artists, this professional showing of their works highlights their talents in their chosen medium and the discovery of their artistic voice.” said Parent, “These shows give the community a chance to see the artists’ work and interact with the artists.”
Max Jones, studio bachelor’s of fine art major, hoped the program would continue.
“Personally, I’m still holding out hope that the program doesn’t end.” Jones said.
“The upcoming BFA exhibition means celebration for the art students,” said Jones. “I think for the people outside of the program, people with art minors or even individuals who want to take an art class, it truly is an awe-inspiring collection of work. These polished student showcases serve a vital role in inspiring other artists and showing them what’s possible. The past exhibitions have encouraged me to try for more, to apply to the BFA, and [shown me] that our work matters and it means something.
