With three days to go, over 100 pieces from about 80 student artists are being carried into The University of Memphis Art Museum for the 18th Annual Juried Student Art Show.
This year's works have been hand-picked by Washington University professor of art Ron Fondaw, known for his ceramic art and architecturally scaled sculptures. He selected art from students enrolled in graduate and undergraduate art classes last year.
With 16 shows under his belt, Fondaw said he was anticipating this show and had great respect for the efforts of the young artists and supporting staff.
"It looks like some real accomplished work has been chosen by Mr. Fondaw," said Museum Director Leslie Luebbers.
"These students have something worth sharing," Fondaw said.
This show will include everything from charcoal drawings to finished oil paintings -- installations, photography and even a short film which has been titled, "An Action Painting."
"It's a rather general show in the respect that students are using different mediums and students are at different grade levels," said Lisa Francisco, assistant director of the Art Museum.
Fondaw said he was searching for visual stimulation that was supported by a fresh idea.
Unlike in past years, architecture has been allowed into this show by the art department, and a few constructions will be on display
"This is a surprising show to come to," Luebbers said. "It's always fascinating to see what has changed from year to year. We've always had reputable jurors and our (U of M) student shows have gotten a good reputation. It's also an easy show to come to. They're are so many students and so much work. It's not like seeing one artist and having the possibility of their whole realm going over your head."
"This is a great opportunity to expose work," senior painting major Keeya Woods said. "I paint, and I entered a ceramic piece -- 'Sleeping Demons.' I'm happy people get to see my other work."
All works chosen await their fate at the Jan. 26 opening. The Graduate Purchase, Best of Show and Merit awards will be announced by Jed Jackson, Art Department chair. The honors awards are $1000, $300 and a $150 certificate from the Art Center respectively.
Francisco said being selected by a professional artist is an honor in itself.
"Local galleries show up every year eager to find new talent," Luebbers said. "This could lead to the next step."
The 18th Annual Juried Student Art Show will run in the museum from Jan. 27-Feb. 24. The opening reception starts Friday night at 5:00 p.m., and awards will be announced around 6:30 p.m.
