Art in Flux

Image Credit: Mercedes Jelinek. Neighborhood Photo Booth Project, 2010-2019. Photograph. Courtesy the artist.

January 17 - February 25, 2017

Over the past seventeen years, the Art Department at Appalachian State University has provided a unique opportunity for its students enroll in a summer studio internship program. By accessing our regions wealth of talented, professional studio artists, each student is paired with an individual artist to observe and assist in the day to day work of a professional studio.

This opportunity enables the student to experience the creative process first hand, as well as the numerous operational tasks that are required to maintain a career in the arts. Mentoring through the sharing of labor not only teaches technical skills, but also expresses that special bond to ones craft that connect generations of makers. Craft-based skills have been shared this way for years and years. For the students, it is an experience similar to that of an apprenticeship.

History has proven this method of learning very effective, and hopefully the pairings in this exhibition capture those special moments when you can witness a shared spirit grow.

Students participating in this exhibition would like to express their gratitude for this incredible opportunity provided to them by the College of Fine Arts and to their mentors for allowing them into their studios to be part of this rewarding experience.