Written by: Lillian Lelko
McKee Library now displays art from several different students, giving them the chance to showcase their work.
Everyone is invited to submi their original artwork to be displayed in a McKee Library art exhibit, according to Bethany Howard, public services librarian, in an interview. Howard said the library is proud to provide a place for campus artists to display their art.
“We always love to see the new, creative ideas that our students do have here on campus, as well as our faculty and staff,” Howard said. “We have a lot of talented people here at Southern, and we really want to showcase the creativity and the diversity of talents that we have here on campus.”
Art by Katie Brobst, adjunct professor in the School of Journalism and Communication, is on display until December 2024, according to the library website. Her exhibit, titled “The Art and Sounds of the South,” can be seen on the main floor of the library.
According to Brobst, she has owned her art studio for 12 years and has displayed her work in various places, including art galleries, shows, and small businesses in Nashville and Chattanooga.
“[Displaying artwork] is not unfamiliar territory for me,” she said.
Brobst said she understands the importance of gaining exposure as a young artist.
“My advice would be that any exposure is good exposure,” she said. “Anytime you can get your art in front of other people… to be able to say, ‘I had an art show at a certain place,’ or ‘I did this,’ is really awesome.
“There’s no artist that’s exactly like any other artist,” Brobst explained. “What you’re doing can impact others. Have that confidence to say, ‘My work is good enough to be out there, just like anybody else’s.’”
Howard said all types of art are welcome, as long as they can be displayed with a wire hanging system or in a display case. She said artists must abide by the moral guidelines of the university, which according to the library website include: no nudity, no depictions of questionable behavior and no profanity.
Students, staff, community members, and others can submit their artwork by first contacting Howard by email at howard@southern.edu and then writing a summary of their artwork, along with a short autobiographical note.
Applicants must sign a waiver saying that if their artwork is stolen or damaged, the library is not responsible. Applicants can also sign an optional form to allow the library to share their artwork online.
