Art Director John Rawlings feels like a proud father as he walks the halls of Flathead Valley Community College’s Arts and Technology Department, with the work of almost 200 art students now on display in the annual fall student art show.
As director of the department, Rawlings has seen all of his students grow and progress as painters, photographers and craftsmen. The show, which will be displayed through Dec. 16, features a wide array of work, from delicately crafted rings, to thought-provoking photographs and clothing made of reused materials. There’s no end to the type of work people will find on the walls and Rawlings said it’s a tribute to what FVCC does.
FVCC’s art program is designed to allow students to earn an associate of arts degree and with that they can transfer to a four-year institution after two years. Rawlings said students are often at an advantage by coming to FVCC because the program focuses on the fundamentals.
“We really make sure to give them the basic tools because if you don’t have the foundations, you won’t go anywhere,” he said. “Right now, in this economy, (FVCC) is the best bang for your buck.”
Economics and convenience were just two reasons why April Russell decided to stay in the area and go to FVCC. With a young family, leaving the Flathead Valley wasn’t an option, so Russell enrolled at the school two years ago. This semester she will graduate with an associates of arts degree, with a focus on goldsmithing.
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A watercolor by Eileen Alexander, left, hangs in the hallway gallery at the Arts and Technologies Building during the student art show at Flathead Valley Community College. |
Although she has been making jewelry for eight years, Russell said the courses she took at FVCC were valuable, as was participating in the annual art show, where she is showcasing a series of handcrafted rings this year.
“Being an emerging artist in the community, it’s just great to get your name and designs out there,” she said.
Joshua Timm, an art student in his second year at FVCC, also has work featured in the show, including something called “upcycle,” in which an artist takes trash and makes something useful. Some students chose to make recycled clothing, while others made household items.
“We get to see what our competition is doing, but also be inspired,” he said.
Timm said the show has given him the chance to go around and talk to other students about their techniques. He also said that one of the most rewarding aspects of the show has been to hear unsolicited compliments.
Rawlings said putting together the art shows give students a goal and is a vital part of their education.
“A student show isn’t about getting stuff on the wall to impress mom,” he said. “It’s an important part of the process. It’s not just a show and tell thing.”
The fall student art show is currently on display and open to the public in the basement of the Arts and Technology Building on the FVCC campus until Dec. 16.