As graduating BFA students prepare to embark on their journey into the real world, “The Prologue,” their presentation aims to leave one last mark on ODU’s Fine Arts program.
The opening reception for “The Prologue” will be held at the Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries on Dec. 5, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The installation will be on view from Dec. 6 to 14.
The show features artwork crafted by various seniors in the art department. Their works include diverse mediums, such as drawings, paintings, ceramics, wood sculptures, photography, and videos.
“The Prologue” is meant to represent the starting chapter of the rest of the students’ creative lives. Each work in the show tells a story of resilience personal to each artist.
“My works are drawn from my experiences of growing up with an alcoholic father. Creating these pieces has really helped me heal and process my childhood,” said Avery Keys, one of the featured artists. Her works heavily utilize wood and ceramic, along with charcoal collaging.
Kenya Gary’s pieces focus on how women and flowers share strong and resilient characteristics.
“The installation of the works will help further establish a tie between women and nature as they are often forgotten, overlooked, and even neglected,” Gary said. “Helping to create the sense the two groups have been known to be strong, fight hard, and overcome the difficulties in their paths.”
The featured artists have been working diligently all semester to perfect their evocative works in time for the show.
“I am most looking forward to getting to share my work with others and see it come to life in a professional space,” said Keys.
“Everyone has been so excited and expressive about their works, so getting to see it all put together is the one thing I’m most excited about,” Gary said.
