WINONA LAKE — Grace College will showcase the thesis portfolios of 11 art majors in an exhibition on campus this winter.  
The exhibition for the Senior Art Show will take place Feb. 3 – March 6 at the Grace College Mount Memorial Art Gallery, 808 Kings Highway, Winona Lake. The senior students will hold a public reception on Feb. 7 from 7-9 p.m.
“Throughout their Visual Art and Design program, the students have demonstrated not only exceptional aesthetic skills but the integration of faith in their creative art forms,” said Dr. Kim M. Reiff, dean of the School of Arts and Humanities. “Opportunities for internships and portfolio critiques by industry professionals have contributed to preparing them for future success.”
The exhibits showcase the work of students Emelyn Aca, Veronica Belousov, Avier Brogden, Abigail Cook, Rachel Germann, Tawn Kizer, Rylie Koepke, Kaylee Lehnert, Allison Mroczek, Miriam Studebaker and Hannah Tate.
Tate, a media arts major with minors in photography and behavioral science from Crawfordsville, is showcasing her senior display “Reflections in Motion: Beholding His Glory” in the first round of the exhibitions. Tate is showcasing works of photo and video captured over the course of her studies and internship. According to Tate, the display is a testament to her own journey as a creative.
“Every picture or video I have displayed is not only a reflection of a singular moment but an example of a greater story in motion,” said Tate. “It is within these moments of stepping back and reflecting upon the world before me that I see the presence of the Lord the most. I create to praise my creator. As I look back on my time at Grace, I see the way the Lord has intricately woven my own story and displayed His Glory in amazing ways. Though I have come to the point of graduation, my journey as an artist is only beginning.”
The Senior Art/Design Portfolio course is the culmination of an art student's experience in the program.
“One of the things I have appreciated most about my experience in the program at Grace is being challenged to go outside of the confines of my comfort zone,” said Tate. “Seeing the growth that comes along with this challenge both in myself and in my peers has been a rewarding experience. It has been a joy to be able to learn and see this take place alongside other creatives.”
In addition to the exhibition, students will participate in mock interviews as part of the course. This will allow them to practice sharing their portfolio and representing themselves as artists.
The Mount Memorial Art Gallery is open Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The department’s goal is to equip graduates with the ability to communicate visually, possess professional skills and be able to analyze works from historical and contemporary cultural perspectives. Students learn to demonstrate excellence in creative work that ultimately serves their calling as artists, Christians and professionals.
For more information, call 574-372-5100, ext. 6022, or email [email protected].