ESU Senior artists are the feature of the latest exhibit in the Madelon Powers Art Gallery.
The reception for the artists occurred from 4 to 6 p.m. on April 12. Various forms of artwork were displayed and artists stayed dutifully at their stations to explain their work and provide insight to their influences.
Scholarships and awards were announced to the advanced artists present.
Alisha Rohrer was awarded with the Sterling and Dorothy Strauser Annual Scholarship Award.
The next award, the Cecilia S. Cohen Art Endowed Scholarship for a student who excels in art history, was announced by professor and art historian, Dr. Melissa Geiger.
“It’s in the art history classes where students learn to appropriate terminology and methodological theories to teach them how to thoughtfully interpret artwork and understand the work’s larger significance within the broader context of art history,” said Geiger.
Andrea Telatovich was announced as the recipient of this scholarship.
The three recipients of the Excellence in the Arts Award were Laila Andujar, Victoria Salvadge and Rachael Swartz.
Professor Jocelyn Kolb DeWitt announced the awards.
The two recipients of the Dr. Irene Mitchel ‘Three Sisters Endowed Art Scholarship’ in memory of Helen Mitchel Stetz and Mary Mitchel Kurello are Amy Corradino and Kristina Turturiello.
Professor David Mazure announced the recipients of this scholarship.
President Marsha Welsh was also present at the reception for the artists.
“It is just amazing to see what our students can do, and it speaks to the talent of our faculty,” said Welsh.
Swartz’s display of artwork featured a variety of work from printed post-its to 3D printed chess pieces.
Swartz also developed a uniquely designed prototype for a glucose monitor.
However, one of the biggest hits was Swartz’s 3D printed prosthetics for an impaired duck named Scoby.
Scoby suffered from severe infection, which resulted in the amputation of his entire leg. Swartz designed and printed a prosthetic for the duck.
“I’m going into 3D Printing prosthetics, so I’m taking full advantage of the 3D printers here,” said Swartz.
Abigail Cruz’s installment followed a clear color scheme, featuring pleasing combinations of pinks, blues and other bright colors. Cruz’s display featured logo designs as well as digital views of some of her other works.
Cruz cites an interest in sports editing and 3D Design.
Cruz had designed necklaces made from laser-cut leather, which were sold in the past.
Abigail Cruz showcases her art.
Rohrer also had an interesting color scheme. Designs featured a light blue and vibrant orange color scheme throughout.
However, her artwork is also able to be practical in its use. One interesting design piece was a box which acted as a media kit, putting a creative twist on the job resume.
“When you open it, all my information pops up, so this would be good for job interviews,” stated Rohrer.
Rohrer’s display also featured website information, magnets and stickers.
Morgan Weissbach’s art was intricately created with pen and ink. Weissbach stated that Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator are also important tools, though she prefers to stick with the classic medium.
Jessica Lepri’s table featured information about the music therapy field. Her work was interactive in asking attendees to take part in her installment piece. Colorful sticky notes covered the wall behind her display, revealing interesting phrases and doodles.
Lepri’s ultimate goal is to become an art therapist, and she intends to further her education to pursue this field.
“I’ve always loved helping people, and I loved creating art and I wondered if I could put these two together,” said Lepri.
Lauren Aliberto’s work featured unique and eye-catching designs.
“If you ever want skulls or something like it came out of a rabbit hole, I’m your guy,” said Aliberto.
Aliberto uses a variety of media in her artwork. The pieces she showcased in the gallery ranged in use of charcoal to paint to sewing to designing with Adobe Illustrator.
Sharing a table was Jameela Mathis’ Japanese-inspired artwork. Mathis explained that she utilizes both traditional and new approaches to her artwork.
Mathis’ Japanese inspiration in her artwork is something she has developed since her childhood.
The artists’ work will remain in the gallery through May 4.
Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday.
For more information, you can email esuarts@esu.edu.