Transylvania University students were recognized for their artistic achievements during Friday’s Juried Student Art Exhibition reception and awards presentation in Morlan Gallery.
The annual exhibition, which is free and open to the public, runs through May 17.
“The 2019 Juried Student Art Exhibition is one for the record books,” gallery director Andrea Fisher said. “We had significantly more digital works than ever before—with seven video art pieces and almost 30 digital photographs and drawings. We also gave out more awards than ever before, with a total of 12 individuals recognized for exceptional work in specific media, class leadership, scholarship and creativity.”
This year’s honors included the Dean’s Purchase Award, which went to Lauren Nunn for two untitled scratch board drawings of a wolf and hare. This prize recognizes superior student artists by installing their works in a permanent collection on campus. Michael Cairo, interim vice president for academic affairs and dean of the university, continued the tradition this year.
Additionally, Sarah Schaaf won the Nana Lampton Prize for her consistent creativity, work ethic and leadership by example. The award is named in honor of the visual artist, poet, philanthropist and business leader.
Another recognition, the Abbott Scholarship, went to Zachary Hall for demonstrating studio and scholarly excellence. The scholarship honors the memory of Mildred and Harold Abbott, both patrons and practitioners in the visual and performing arts.
Other award recipients
Best in Ceramic | Sonora Schuck (“Mama Tlacuaché,” “Regular Dog” and “Tooth Fairy”)
Best in Digital Work, Time-Based | Jenna Soderling (three video pieces, including original music: “2Triggerz,” “A Pet Ghost” and “All Are Welcome”)
Best in Digital Work, Still | Paco Nichols (“Impressions of the Lake House” and two untitled images)
Best in Works on Paper | Grace Morrison (pencil drawing, “Blinded”)
Best in Works on Paper | Sonora Schuck (series of framed linoleum prints)
Best in Painting | Cabby Brown (“Head with Flowers” and “Psychedelic Ricki”)
Best in Sculpture | Mara Merchant (“Fairy Circle”)
Best in Taxidermy | Emily Maddix (“The Rat,” first taxidermy work ever submitted)
Best in Variety of Media | Zachary Hall (photographs, video and drawing)