Wednesday, Jan. 29 marked the opening of the 2014 Annual Student Juried Exhibition, which presents artwork created by DePauw students. The students enter their pieces, and a specially selected juror chooses which pieces will be in the exhibit.
This year, the exhibition was organized by Misti Scott and juried by the executive director at the Indianapolis Museum of Contemporary Art, Shauta Marsh.
Some of the pieces included eye-catching 3D structures such as tree branches coming to life out of a wall, as well as mind-altering 2D pieces such as photographs and oil paintings.
Approximately 90 pieces were entered, and a select 35 were chosen. Out of the 35 pieces, six were recognized for their creativity and excellence. First, second, and third place awards were given out for both 2D art and for 3D art, and all of the artists who placed received a cash reward.
Senior Clarissa Zingraf created a piece entitled "Terracotta Warriors," but these terracotta figures are a bit unlike the ones we hear about in China.
Zingraf made a 3D collection of colorful painted-on condoms, which won second place for the 3D art section.
Shauta Marsh described Zingraf's piece as "brave but not shocking," which was Zingraf's goal.
Zingraf explains that her 'Terracotta Warriors' are meant to empower women and act as guardians against rape and the ramifications that can ensue from that.
"These little 'Terracotta Warriors' really are warriors because they protect women against sexual assault, STI's and pregnancy," said Zingraf, adding that she wanted to make something "relatable to college students."
Many others who took part in this exhibition were excited about seeing their peers' work up on the walls.
First year Perrin Duncan, who won second place in 2D art for one of her paintings, seemed particularly interested in seeing her peers' talents.
"[I] love seeing student artwork," Duncan said as she peered around the room.
At first glance, Duncan's work appears to be a collection of smooth brush strokes and shapes. After viewing Duncan's piece, "Chin Up" for a few minutes, one begins to see that it is an upside-down painting of her own face.
Another freshman, Jamie Stoner, was ecstatic to have her own artwork displayed in the exhibit, describing her reaction to the news as "surprised" and "really excited."
This exhibit will remain open until March 2nd.