By Kendra Loh
Staff Writer
“The purpose of the Unity Showcase is to function as an artistic celebration of diversity as a beautiful reflection of our creator,” said Melanie Taylor, senior sports ministry major and president of MOSAIC.
MOSAIC is a student organization that focuses on providing a community for all students, especially racial or ethnic minority students.
Taylor said the enthusiastic response during Culture Fest in the spring inspired MOSAIC officials to organize the event.
“As the arts have historically been an integral part of minority culture and self-expression, we want to continue in that rich tradition,” Taylor said. “We hope that this event will boost minority student involvement and an appreciation for diversity on campus.”
Performing, culinary or visual arts from a variety of cultures will be displayed. Students of different backgrounds and ethnicities will present their culture in a way that is informative, unique and culturally sensitive.
Taylor believes the event will be an excellent opportunity for MOSAIC to live out its mission at Union University and for students to connect with one another.
“MOSAIC is hoping to present the most diverse array of talent and art available,” she said. “We want as many people as possible to share this experience with us.”
Jacqueline Taylor, director of the Vocatio Center for Life Calling and Career and assistant dean of students, also is MOSAIC adviser. She said the event will greatly benefit the Union community.
“It will allow us all to live out the unity scripture of Revelation 7:9, where all nations, tribes, tongues and people will be unified for God’s glory,” Jacqueline Taylor said. “Ultimately, it is our hope that the MOSAIC Unity Showcase will promote a true understanding and appreciation of the wonderful diversity among us here at Union while also serving as an illumination of God’s love for humanity.”
Matthew Marshall, director of minority student success and MOSAIC co-adviser, said he hopes the event will celebrate godly creativity, diversity, artistry and excellence.
“In this we pray that God may show us a small glimpse of beauty as he intended it,” Marshall said.
Referring to a quote by C.S. Lewis that suggests beauty comes through a variety of art and creates in people “a longing for something greater,” Marshall added that the event’s purpose is to foster in us a greater longing for a future glory.
Auditions for the Showcase were held Tuesday and were judged by Marshall and some executive council members.
Students whose work makes it to the final selections for the showcase will be notified via e-mail by Oct. 4.
