Russell, a photography emphasis, will be doing her photography project on Peden’s senior project because they would have to share the gallery for their shows regardless of subject.
“I came up with the idea of doing a joint show with Megan to take advantage of the available space and make it look cohesive,” said Russell.
According to Russell most senior art majors have been preparing for their senior shows their entire Union careers by narrowing down what it is they do best then picking a subject early senior year. She had trouble with deciding on a subject to go along with her portrait-centered work, so she thought she could use Peden’s pottery as her subject.
Russell believes that doing her project on Peden’s work can help the both of them out through photography’s ability to promote community.
Russell chose photography after coming to Union with a different major. She took several art classes before deciding to switch to something she was more passionate about. Photography is something that has always interested Russell and gives her creative outlet and a way to explore the world in a different way.
Peden, a ceramics emphasis, is presenting art for the show is also centered around community and relationships. Her show is a 10 piece dinnerware set that includes all kinds of plates, bowls, drinking glasses and various serving dishes.
“The challenge of making a matching set of pieces for that number was one that I wanted to take on this semester, and one that I wanted to be able to leave school knowing I have accomplished,” said Peden.
Peden’s inspiration for her show camp from her family. The evening meal was a big deal to her family’s daily ritual growing up, so she has fond memories of family dinners. This made presenting the art easy because she could set the table for the evening meal with her pottery.
Both students have been working on their shows since the beginning of the semester and are looking forward to sharing their work with others as art has ben huge part of their lives.
“Being in the arts has taught me to be more aware of life as it happens and to walk through it making a point of being conscious of beauty,” Peden said.
After graduation both students are planning on pursuing careers in their respective emphases and living a life full of creativity.
The show will start Tuesday, April 28 at 5:30 PM.
