An eclectic mix of traditional paintings, electronic art and statues has transformed the Kresge Art Museum for the 2002 Undergraduate Art Exhibition.
An accumulation of a year of hard work, the art show opened last week and runs through April 28.
It is an exhibition of judged art, from art department courses, including ceramics, drawing, graphic design, painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture.
Roughly 200 people attended Friday’s opening day as they crammed into the corridor of the Kresge Art Center to listen to Chairman Jim Hopfensperger announce the show’s winners.
A constant flow of art enthusiasts then moved to the gallery to view the student art on display.
Jenclare Gawaran, an art education junior had a drawing piece in the show titled “Branded.”
“I don’t think people realize there is a creative side to this university,” she said.
“There is so much talent in this room.”
Esther Bloom, 64, agreed. She has been coming to the exhibition for the past five years.
“The art in here is just as good as any in a big city,” the East Lansing resident said.
“There is everything from traditional portraits to more contemporary works.”
Bloom said it was important to recognize the students’ work.
“I am very impressed,” she said.
Any work done by students throughout the year is eligible for the show, said Susan Bandes, director of Kresge Art Gallery.
Students submit their works to their professors and about 300 pieces make it in the show.
Bandes said faculty from the different courses make the selections and outside judges make the final decisions, deciding the winners.
Best of Show went to Jacqueline Klempay for her untitled work from Studio Art 430.
The piece featured women’s slips floating down on hangers. There were feet, cast from wax,that hung at the bottom.
Leigh Bek, a freshman art major, didn’t think of the show as a competition.
“It offers great experience,” she said.
She submitted an abstract piece made of wire and nylons.
“It was really fun, but challenging to make,” she said.
“I’m just glad it is in the show.”
The exhibition continues through April 28 and is free to the public. It is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, except Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays and noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
