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Events - Nordstrand Art Gallery

Senior Art Exhibit

  • March 27 - April 19, 2024
  • Nordstrand Visual Arts Gallery, Conn Library
  • Free and open to the public

View artwork by WSC seniors Gracie Beddow, Emilia Goetsch, Zaynab Kouatli, Autumn Nies, Rachel Nissen, Gabriel Perez, Miranda Roth, and Robert Van Heufeln.

Nordstrand Visual Arts Gallery

“Crowded Space,” featuring artwork by eight Wayne State College seniors, opens Wednesday, March 27. The exhibit is free and open to the public through April 19.

Artists include art education majors Gracie Beddow of Atkinson, Neb.; Emilia Goetsch of Pierce, Neb.; Miranda Roth of Lincoln, Neb.; and Zaynab Kouatli of Stanton, Neb; studio arts majors Autumn Nies of Bloomfield, Neb.; Rachel Nissen of Wisner, Neb; and Robert Van Heufeln of Grand Island, Neb.; and graphic design/studio arts major Gabriel Perez of Pender, Neb.

“Crowded Space” examines heritage, emotion, life experiences, personal growth, and mental health through printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, and painting. Beddow’s creations plunge into fantastical narratives and character development, inviting viewers into a whimsical world. The intangible take form in Goetsch’s artwork in a magical, yet dark and disturbed, manner. Roth’s works confront perceptions of self and belonging. Works by Kouatli challenge stereotypes and foster a more nuanced understanding of culture and identity.

Transforming abstract concepts into playful works of art is Nies’ forte, bringing silliness and fun to the dull and uneventful. While Nissen’s creations are inspired by her childhood and life experiences, Van Heufeln combines the beautiful with the grotesque to echo the complexity of nature and humanity. Perez incorporates bright colors and bold brush strokes to represent his culture, personality, and love of street art.

The gallery is open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, and 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday. It is closed Saturday. Shows end at noon on closing day.

For more information on this exhibit or upcoming shows, visit www.wsc.edu/art-gallery or contact gallery director Dr. Andy Haslit, professor of art history, at [email protected].