By Levi McGarry, College of Arts and Sciences
The Department of Art is hosting the Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition and Reception, showcasing works from this year’s graduating class. The Spring 2025 BFA Exhibition opened on April 8 on the 5 floor of the Fine Arts Center and runs through April 20, 2025. The BFA Reception on April 17 from 4:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m,. will feature works by student artists.
David Janssen is an assistant professor in the Department of Art who has witnessed first-hand the growth and development of this year’s student graduates. He emphasized that students have labored diligently on artworks that highlight their talent, imagination, and vision as creators.
“This is the moment for our where our students get to show the creations that they’ve been working on as artists for so long,” said Janssen, likening the graduating exhibition to a cumulative concert or athletic tournament. “These students have really poured their hearts and souls into their work, and it’s an incredible moment to see what these contemporary artists are offering in our spaces.”
Madeline Goolie is a graduating senior from Anchorage specializing in printmaking. She credits the Bachehlor of Fine Arts (BFA) program for its interdisciplinary approach to arts education.
“In this program you’re pushed to do a little bit of each medium, which is really important as an artist,” said Goolie. “I started as a ceramicist but quickly filled my credits and had to try something else. I had done a lot of carving in ceramics, and that really correlated to relief printmaking.”
Goolie recently traveled to Puerto Rico to receive the Gamblin Undergraduate Award from the Southern Graphics Council International (SGCI), given to outstanding undergraduate students demonstrating excellence in printmaking. After graduation, she plans to continue printmaking and exhibiting her work in Spokane and encourages emerging artists to consider WSU for their own education. “After working with Professor Kevin Haas for the past two and a half years, I’ve really benefitted from the one-on-one time with my professors,” said Goolie.
That sentiment is shared by Collin Scott, a graduating senior specializing in painting and sculpture. “I came to WSU because I wanted mentorship in the arts and to learn from people who are exhibiting artists,” said Scott. “It’s awesome to be able to look up to faculty who can help me accomplish my objectives, and I’ve learned to listen to my mentors and really put the time into my work.”
Scott states that he was originally hesitant to approach faculty members, but quickly learned they were available to support his education. “The professors always want to talk and help, and once I realized that it opened up a whole new world for my art.”
Janssen, assistant professor, points out that the BFA program is competitive and is intended for students looking for a serious dive into the professional side of art. “Through all these different courses, the students develop technical methods and techniques,” said Janssen. “Watching them take those skills and understanding of art history and develop over four years is just so cool to see. It’s the biggest honor of what I do as a mentor and faculty member.”