From working side by side with acclaimed artists to countless opportunities to showcase
your talent on and off campus, Wichita State's College of Fine Arts provides an environment
where you can train like a professional—and gain the skills, connections and confidence
to launch your dream career.
On March 12, art and design students installed work in Wichita State's McKnight Art
Center for an event that never happened.
Traditionally, Emerging Artists is an annual showcase of work by many of the best
students in the School of Art, Design and Creative Industries. It is hosted by the
Art & Design Advocates, a patron group that raises money for the school. The group
planned to disburse $1,750 in prize money, thanks to the sponsorship of Celebrity
Cruises.
Though the March 14 event was cancelled due to safety concerns around the novel Coronavirus,
the group pivoted to a virtual awards ceremony, posted in a video to their Facebook
page. They asked the event photographer to document the show and photos of each piece
are also available on Facebook. Many are for sale.
“The work this year was incredible and we absolutely hated to cancel,” said Emily
Brookover, president of the Art & Design Advocates. “We’re glad we can at least share
the work of these talented students and we encourage everyone to check out the photos
and maybe add a piece to their collection.”
First-year graduate student Robert Bailey (sculpture) placed first and won $1,000.
Second-year graduate student Lily Guillen (photo media) took home second place and
$500. The $250 third-place prize went to Meghan Miller, another first-year graduate
student with an emphasis in sculpture.
Kelsy Gossett Dennis, an assistant professor of photography at McPherson College,
served as this year’s judge. She was able to view the work in person before campus
buildings closed.
Board member and Emerging Artists committee member Richard Overby took video of each
student holding their ceremonial giant checks at a safe social distance, of course.
These videos are also available on Facebook.
The Art & Design Advocates are affiliated with the WSU Foundation and disburse money
directly to students and faculty through a simplified grant process. Recently, they
have funded student trips to Peru and Italy, materials for student exhibitions and
travel to professional conferences.
To learn more about the Art & Design Advocates, contact Alyssa Scott, associate director
of development for the College of Fine Arts: alyssa.scott@wichita.edu or 316-978-3899.
