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Alexis Phelps

Artists panel provides advice to students

Artists and curators come together to share knowledge during IAC's artist panel discussion

Troy University’s International Arts Center (IAC) organized an artist panel discussion to give students the chance to engage with and learn from professional artists last Tuesday.

The panel included curator Dr. Jennifer Jankauskas, Mobile, Alabama artist Kevin King, and Winfred Hawkins, the artist behind an exhibit currently displayed in the IAC, “Comedian.”

“Hosting artist talks gives artists the opportunity to not only get the audience to connect more with the work but to also stimulate them and create inspiration,” Hawkins said.

Many students not only got the opportunity to hear Hawkins' explanation behind his works, but they also had the chance to engage with the artist by asking questions.

“Life is cumulative learning, and in order to have something to talk about you have to educate yourself on various topics that may not be included in your particular craft,” Hawkins said.

King explained how he enjoys engaging with students by sharing his knowledge not only about art, but also about life.

“To me, everything is about the potential to build relationships with people, and doing artist talks gives artists the opportunity to not only talk about the work that they’re doing, but to also meet and leave a lasting impact on others,” King said.

He explained how he is a good friend of Hawkins, as they get to see each other often since they work at the same studio in Montgomery, Alabama.

One of the students in attendance, Anna Mitchell, a senior fine arts major from Birmingham, Alabama, said she enjoyed seeing both professionals and students in the same room.

“I think it's really inspiring to come and listen to the artist explain the meaning behind their works,” Mitchell said. “I really liked how Winfred Hawkins was talking about knowing your craft and how important it is to take time to learn art history.”

Students were also offered free snacks provided by the University such as sandwiches, chips, cookies and refreshments.

While the university hasn’t released a date for the next artist talk, Hawkins assured that there will be more to come in the future.

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