An opening reception for the 2024 Senior Art Show was held in the Center for Art and Dance (CAD) on the evening of April 26.
The exhibit — which spans the Flaten Art Museum, the Groot Gallery, and the Center’s lower floors — features artwork by senior studio art majors Vazgen Ananyan ’24, Briar Bell ’24, Anike Braun ’24, Sophie Call ’24, Honor Czarnik ’24, Emily Domres ‘24, Julia Everest ‘24, Carissa Forner ‘24, Laila Franklin ‘24, Alexa Hwang ‘24, Fiko Insel ’24, Lauren Jacobson ’24, Grace Kelnhofer ’24, Aleah Keske ’24, Emily Klein ’24, Uyen Le ’24, Espen Martinson ’24, Andrew Mazariegos-Ovalle ’24, Jessenia Prado ’24, La BOGOTANA ’24, Sylvia Shutes ’24, Eve Strasser ’24, Olivia Talley ’24, and Luca Trujillo ’24.
“It’s a time to be inspired by their visions and creativity,” said Professor of Art and Art History Peter B. Nelson, who opened the evening’s remarks. Nelson acknowledged the unique challenges that this cohort of studio art majors faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which included having to take studio art classes virtually during their freshman year.
A moment of silence was held for senior studio art major Evie Torres, who passed away in January. Artwork by Torres — a beloved, talented, and devoted member of the St. Olaf art community — is featured in the Senior Art Show in her memory.
Professor of Art History Hannah Ryan followed Nelson, recognizing the dedication and accomplishments of this year’s graduating class of art history majors, including Briar Bell ’24, Gabby Buck ’24, Emily Domres ’24, Lauren Jacobson ’24, Marissa Lindaman ’24, Jessenia Prado ’24, Eimi Sander ’24, and Martha Slaven ’24.
The main hallway of CAD was overflowing with attendees, and a tremendous energy of love and support for this year’s incredible class of artists and art historians could be felt by everyone who attended the event.
Community members are encouraged to visit the Senior Showcase exhibit, which runs until May 25, when a closing reception will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Vera Sablak is a senior art history and biology major from Concord, Massachusetts. She loves coffee, chatting, and chilly weather. Her most favorite food of all time is grilled cheese and she could spend hours in a plant store. Other than writing Mess articles, Vera loves to write songs and is practically playing the guitar at all times. One day, she hopes to be a florist and the owner of a combined coffee and flower shop.