Western Nevada College students' art on display

Two semesters of art studies culminate tonight at the Western Nevada College reception for the annual juried student art exhibit.

The artists reception is 4-7 p.m. today in the college's Bristlecone Building College and Main galleries. While WNC displays numerous art exhibits through the year, the annual juried student art show is the largest, with the biggest bash for its artists' reception.

Students from the Carson City and Douglas County campuses in both fall and spring semesters choose three pieces from each of their art classes for the exhibit. The Fallon campus holds its own exhibit.

"Students are really doing a great job this year," said show organizer Jill Brugler, instructor for ceramics sculpture and art fundamentals. "It's interesting when they do a body of work (through the school year), but when they pick their three favorites, they really stand out."

Artworks in the exhibit represent all media and including dramatic clay masks, handmade furniture, Western and landscape paintings, digital and darkroom photography and ceramic sculpture. The exhibit, which includes about 400 pieces, will continue until May 8.

"Digital photography is a lot more popular this year than in the past," Brugler said, noting the increasing effect technology has on art.

Artist and art teacher Gary Brown is the juror for the show. He teaches art history at WNC and art at Sage Ridge School in Reno.

Brown will attend the reception and, at 6 p.m., explain how he reached his decision in awarding the first-, second-, and third-place winners in each media category, as well as best in show.

In addition to the juried student art exhibit reception, students in the spring portfolio class will host a reception from 4-7 p.m. tonight in the Stairwell Gallery of the Aspen Building. The portfolio exhibit, "5 Minutes to Midnight," will be displayed through the end of the semester May 16.

For more information on the WNC annual juried student art exhibit, call 445-3000.