04/20/12 jgm

HAYS, Kan. -- Two local students from Fort Hays State University's Department of Art and Design recently won awards at the 14th National Juried Exhibition. Juror Carol Fullerton-Samsel, owner of Only Originals Gallery of Fine Art of Benton, Ark., selected 60 works created by 37 artists from 20 states to be exhibited in the Baker Arts Center, Liberal.

In the three-dimensional category, Katrina Florell, Hays graduate student, received first place for her sculpture titled "Play."

"'Play' is a bronze dress created using the lost wax casting method," said Florell. "This work relates to my interest in fabrics and how they can be transformed in various methods, while also connecting to my interest in gender."

"In the Master of Fine Arts program at FHSU, we are encouraged to exhibit our work on various levels, including local, regional, national and international, "said Florell. "This national exhibition allows artists to bring work to the community in and around Liberal. As an artist, it is always positive to show work in different places because it allows a variety of viewer's exposure to the work."

Also in the three-dimensional category, Ned Day, Miller, Neb., graduate student, received third place for his marble sculpture "Joy."

"The initial inspiration for the sculpture came from a seashell given to me by afriend who was aware of my interest in carving organically inspired objects," said Day. "The two-foot high sculpture carved out of gray Colorado Yule marble stands vertically on a base constructed of maple wood, which compliments the natural beauty of the stone."

In addition, Joel Dugan, assistant professor of art and design, and Gordon Sherman, professor of art and design, also won recognition for their art work. Dugan received first place in the two-dimensional category and Sherman received an honorable mention.

"My piece is a lithograph print titled ' What a Time'," said Sherman. "It was inspired by the environmental state we find ourselves in. I have exhibited in the show several times previously and won several awards, including best of show two-dimensional in 2004."

Artworks will be on display through Saturday, May 26, at the Baker Arts Center, 624 N. Pershing. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.