By: Katherine Colborn

The Xavier University Art Department is preparing for this year’s student show, set to open next week. In this annual exhibition, a group of students will display their recent projects in the Xavier University Art Gallery. Over 20 students have submitted their work and will be showcasing their pieces from the night of the opening reception until Feb. 7.

“This show is especially good because it’s got a lot of different kinds of media,” Department Chair Kelly Phelps said. “We’ve also got a ton of work being displayed.”

The show’s variety of media includes both relief and threedimensional sculpture, ceramics using a variety of techniques, fiber works (specifically weaving, coiling Batik and mixed media), painting, drawing using a variety of materials, photography, graphic design, installation and printmaking (specifically linocut, intaglio, relief, screenprint, woodcut, collograph and monotype).

The variety and breadth of disciplines certainly doesn’t detract from the level of quality. Some particular works to look out for are the “Jomon-esque Vessel,” a stunning ceramic piece by Sophomore Octavia Geiger and the series of black, gray and silver resin castings by junior Olivia King. Other eye-catching pieces include Lauren Saltis’s “Dutch Master Study,” a beautifully rendered still life oil painting, the crisp screenprints of junior Abbie Kinnett, series of and the collection of work by senior Katie Doyle, which includes a variety of insect-themed intaglios and a delicate and flowery ceramic tea set.

“It’s a great variety of artwork,” junior Bobby Whitacre said. “It’s a nice display of a bunch of different styles.” Whitacre’s piece in the show, “Dalton,” is an oil portrait not to be missed.

The artists’ reception, open to anyone, will be held from 6to 8 p.m. this Friday in the Xavier Art Gallery, located in the A.B. Cohen Center. There will be free refreshments served.