MUW Graduating Seniors’ Artwork on Display Through May 10

COLUMBUS, Miss. (Press Release) — Artwork by six graduating seniors of Mississippi University for Women will be showcased at the Eugenia Summer Gallery through May 10.

The art exhibition titled “Mac Meets Mud” fulfills a requirement for all graduates of the bachelor of fine arts program at The W.

Each graduate must prepare an artist talk in which they present various works of art to describe their personal aesthetic as an artist. Artist talks will be Friday, May 2 from about 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. followed by a reception, which is free and open to the public. Selected pieces will be for sale.

Artists include:

Efrem Zimbalist Gillard Jr. was born in Tupelo and graduated from Tupelo High School. He will receive a BFA in graphic design with a minor in business marketing. His work conveys a clean professional look and his illustrations focus on naturalism. “Every day has been a challenge; but what is life without challenges?  It’s a life without purpose that you cannot learn or grow from,” Gillard said. “So, I embrace these challenges as I walk toward my dream.”

Shana Stanton is from Vicksburg and will receive her degree in graphic design.  She graduated from Vicksburg High School. Stanton said The W has left a significant impact on her not only concerning school but also in life. “It has driven me to be more independent and confident for an artistic career.  I leave with determination and capabilities of achieving my goals,” she said.

Anna Stokes, who is from Ecru, graduated from North Pontotoc High School. She will earn her degree in graphic design.  Stokes, said, “During my time at the W, I have learned to be more confident as an artist.  The professors at The W have also taught me important skills that will help me succeed in the graphic design industry.”

Sarah Barrett of Fulton graduated from Itawamba Agricultural High School. Her degree is in graphic design. This summer, she will participate in an internship at the Mabus Agency in Tupelo. “MUW has taught me artistic skills and life lessons that will help me for many years to come,” Fulton said. “I am thankful for the amazing professors who have helped me achieve more than I thought I would in only a few years.”

Eddie Strawbridge was born in Belden. He graduated from North Pontotoc High School and will earn his degree in graphic design. Upon graduation, Strawbridge plans to pursue an internship. His work conveys a poster style with illustrative design work.

Alexandra Long, who is from Greenville, graduated from Washington High School. She will earn her degree in ceramics. She plans to pursue Mississippi residencies or apprenticeships after graduation. Her work exhibits femininity in the form of both functional and nonfunctional curvaceous vessels. “Being an art student has been the most difficult challenge in my life, so far.  We don’t sleep, and we live off of food from vending machines and compliments from our professors,” she said. “But, we get to do what we love, so considering that, it’s a small price to pay.”

Eugenia Summer Gallery is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and is located in the Art and Design Building on the southwest corner of the MUW campus  between the Stark Recreation Center and the Fant Library.

The Gallery is often able to extend viewing hours. For questions about the gallery or the current exhibition call (662)329-7341, (662) 329-7291, email acstelioeswills@muw.edu or aesnyder@muw.edu.

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