Waynesburg senior’s art show to benefit Autism Speaks
Ryan Mayfield, a Waynesburg University senior art major from Carmichaels, holds some of the 200 colorful ceramic puzzle pieces he hopes will generate donations for autism-affiliated groups.
Ryan Mayfield of Carmichaels will have his senior art exhibit at Waynesburg University’s Benedum Fine Arts Gallery from Feb. 22 to March 18.
WAYNESBURG – Senior art exhibits at Waynesburg University typically tell the story of the artist who created the works on display.
Ryan Mayfield, a senior art major from Carmichaels, does exactly that with his upcoming show that highlights his interests in comics, movies and music, but he also is using the occasion to feature a cause important to him.
Alongside Mayfield’s sketches and sculptures will be colorful ceramic puzzle pieces that people who attend the show can take upon making a donation that will benefit autism-affiliated organizations studying the cognitive impairment.
Mayfield said his girlfriend, Mallory Stajnrajh, has a 9-year-old cousin with autism, and the bond he’s formed with the boy made an impression on his life. After interacting with his girlfriend’s cousin, he began reading books and watching videos to learn more about autism.
“Getting to know him and being around autism more really has changed my life about how someone can be different and unique at the same,” Mayfield said.
In response, he wanted to use his exhibit, which can be viewed weekdays from Feb. 22 to March 18 at the Benedum Fine Arts Gallery, to tell another story and help an important cause.
Mayfield made 200 puzzle pieces – the symbol for Autism Speaks – each of which are slightly smaller than a table coaster and bright shades of blue, yellow and red. Another 100 are expected to be ready before the show. Mayfield said he’s hoping people who attend will make a donation, no matter the amount, to help Autism Speaks or Autism Society.
“Each piece is unique, just like every Autistic kid,” he said,”unique and special.”
Andrew Heisey, an art professor and Mayfield’s advisor, is proud of the exhibit and the decision to try something different to raise money and awareness for autism.
“This is different because Ryan has a goal and is trying to help the community and this cause,” Heisey said. “It’s so different and very personal.”
The puzzle pieces will be located next to a donation box in the exhibit. Mayfield originally thought of selling the pieces, but thought the donations would be an easier way for college students to contribute.
“I’m hoping that by doing this it will (inspire) other seniors and other shows to help with charities,” Mayfield said. “It’s for a good cause. If they can donate a dollar or two, anything will help.”
The university’s Department of Fine Arts holds senior art exhibits each year and Mayfield’s will be the only one during the spring semester. The gallery hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, or by appointment. The public is invited to attend the free opening reception that will be held Monday, Feb. 22 from 6 to 8 p.m.
About a week before his debut, Mayfield said he’s eager to show his talents and interests that will include sculpture and drawings.
“It’s pretty exciting because it’s for my first show,” he said. “I’m excited for people to see what I’m doing and embrace it.”