Art majors display works in Honors Art exhibition

Kaitlyn Barker creates art that dives into her and her sister’s invisible illnesses “and brings them into visibility in ways that words cannot,” she said. She uses various media in many different forms to bring a physical and visual representation of what it is like to have an invisible illness. According to Barker, her works are a form of awareness against the stigma towards illnesses and disabilities that aren’t easily seen or recognized.

Photo caption: "Perfection," 2023, Yarn on wood frame, 2'x2'

Sarah Mendez embraces digital media as her preferred medium, blending traditional comic art with the digital canvas, in her comic series, which, she says, “is inspired by the iconic structure of classic comics like Garfield and Mafalda.” “The comic series revolves around my personal relationship with video games and the diverse group of individuals that I encountered within these digital spaces… Through this series, I seek to shed light on the harsh realities experienced by females in this virtual environment, subtly emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and respectful gaming culture.”

Photo caption: "Beyond the Console, Interior Page 1," 2023, Digital Drawing, 10 in x 6 in

Evan Meyers uses charcoal to create drawings inspired by horror films and different experiences. He said, “My series ‘Night Shift’ focuses on my experiences working in the food service industry by incorporating horror movie villains into these work environments.”

Photo caption: “Order Up," 2023, Charcoal on Rives BFK, 13.5 x 10.5

Brenay Spencer uses various media such as clay, fiber, paint, photography, and digital graphics to represent the human experience and its connection to nature, as well as mental health. “I want to document how I navigate life and hope to relate to people and show them they aren’t alone,” she said, “Expressing humanity in various ways can help me connect not only with others, but nature, as well."

Photo caption: "Heart problems," 2023, Ceramic