USAO’s Art Review Shows Students’ ‘Different Strokes’

CHICKASHA – Fifteen art students have turned the walls into canvases to present “Different Strokes,” the 2008 annual sophomore art review exhibit at the University of Science and Arts. From swirling colors to abstract shapes and human forms, the exhibit has a variety of artwork now on display in the Davis Hall Third Floor Art Gallery.

“These kids have got it together,” said Kent Lamar, professor of art. “Overall, as a group, they’re sharp, they’re diverse, they’re all serious artists. It’s a very good show.”

On display through Feb. 27, the art review features expressive photography, colorful paintings, detailed ceramics, even jewelry. Most pieces are for sale. A special opening reception with refreshments is open to the public Jan. 25 from 4-7 p.m.

Bethel Acres art sophomore Ali Crouch said many of her works begin as stories.

“I like to write stories and screenplays,” she said. “A lot of my artwork comes from what I imagine the characters would look like on screen.” Crouch’s thin human figures are reminiscent of characters from Hollywood director Tim Burton’s films “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and “The Corpse Bride.”

El Reno artist Jeannie Boling said she prefers human subjects over landscapes.

“I enjoy painting people, primarily women,” she said. “Guys usually end up looking feminine, so I usually paint women.” Boling uses color to express emotion, as in her painting, “Wow,” which depicts a flame-colored woman swallowing a sword.

Lamar said he is proud of the contributing art students.

“They took it seriously and they’ve done a good job presenting their work,” he said.

“Different Strokes” is free and open to the public. The Third Floor Art Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri.

PHOTO CUTLINE 

Ali Crouch is one of 15 art sophomores currently displaying original artwork in USAO’s annual sophomore art review exhibition. “Different Strokes” includes paintings, black and white photography, ceramics and more, most of which are for sale. An opening reception is open to the public Jan. 25 from 4-7 p.m. The exhibit remains on display through Feb. 27 in the Davis Hall Third Floor Art Gallery.

NEWS RELEASE January 24, 2008
UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND ARTS OF OKLAHOMA - CHICKASHA
CONTACT MICHAEL BENDURE, News Bureau, 405-574-1362, mbendure@usao.edu
RANDY TALLEY: Public Relations, 405-574-1337, rtalley@usao.edu
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