Student art exhibit opens at Waynesburg University
WAYNESBURG – One of Andrew Heisey’s favorite parts about teaching art at Waynesburg University is seeing students who don’t consider themselves artists growing into talented sculptors and painters.
“It’s really neat to see the students who aren’t majoring in art grow,” Heisey said. “They come into these classes to get a credit and they don’t see themselves as talented in the arts. But it’s fun to see them where they eventually say, ‘Hey, I can do this.'”
The works of nearly 70 students – many of them who aren’t studying art as their major at the university – are on display at the Benedum Fine Arts Gallery from now until April 22.
The exhibit opened Monday night with a reception to showcase the artwork that includes sculptures, paintings and drawings.
The exhibit includes a variety of pieces, including ceramics, drawings, prints, sculptures and multi-dimensional pieces. The pieces were selected by the Waynesburg University’s art faculty.
Heisey also raved about the pieces on display from the “extremely talented and special” art majors.
“It’s the best of the best that has been offered in class,” Heisey said. “We try to pick out the best pieces students have done.”
Waynesburg University’s art program exposes students to the creative process and provides them with practical experience in using the tools and techniques of the visual artist, Heisey said. Students develop self-awareness, as they find opportunities to progress according to their own abilities, he said.
The gallery is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend during the opening hours. Heisey said anyone who cannot make the weekday gallery hours can contact him by email at aheisey@waynesburg.edu or call 724-852-3274 to schedule a special viewing.