Off the Field: Art Exhibition

by Taylor Massey

Three Republic art students joined their teacher in exhibiting work at Missouri State University during a recent show. From November 4 to 18, Missouri State University held an exhibition open to art teachers across the entire state. Teacher Holly Goodwin decided to enter her own artwork.

“The ‘Molecular Tiger’ illustration took me over a year to complete and I had started it last October. I was diagnosed with a rare skeletal muscle disease in 2012, and my artwork since then has explored my own cells and DNA to make sense of my own condition. I find that my own artwork creates a means for me to discuss my health with others in a practical way and bring awareness to ‘invisible disabilities’ like mine,” explained Goodwin.

Because she had entered, Goodwin was allowed to invite three students of her own to the show. Seniors Madison Dyer, Emma George, and Baylee Johnson all displayed their artwork. They had been working on their pieces since late August, and this event was the perfect time for them to showcase their hard work.

Under normal circumstances, the show would be open to the public to view the artwork throughout the two weeks it took place. Because of COVID-19,there were limited hours for visitors, with some of the pieces displayed virtually.

Dyer said the pandemic definitely changed the dynamic of the show. “In my opinion, visualizing art is so much more intimate in person, as you can really see the fine detail put into the piece. . .The fact that there are a lot more methods of viewing art virtually is something that I need to learn to get used to.”

Amid times like these, George felt that her art was able to change her perspective and influence her creativity. “I look at the world in a different way now, and I really think about the beauty we have within our surroundings. I tried to put that into my artwork because art is my escape from the constant worries and panic going on throughout the world.”

The top pieces from art teachers and students were both awarded in several categories. Johnson’s needle felt creature placed 1st in the fabrics category. “Personally, I did not attend the MSU showing or anything of that nature, but Mrs. Goodwin contacted me to let me know I had won,” said Johnson.

Goodwin believes that this show is an exciting and important opportunity for young artists. “This gives the students a sense of pride and experience showing at a collegiate level at a professional gallery. The only reason I enter is so that I can give three artists this experience before graduating high school.”