Art history major Hunter Moore has long been fascinated by religious themes, particularly those involving fallen angels. This interest is reflected in her recent work, "Beginning of the End," an acrylic landscape she created this past semester. Additionally, she crafted a bronze sculpture of a goat to symbolize “how animals have often been symbols for sinful urges in the Catholic religion.”
Juno Stuelke, an art major and biology minor, uses his art to address personal mental health challenges. His piece "Manic" represents his experiences with depression from childhood to adulthood. Stuelke stated that the artwork “depicts my journey from a child to now and the effects depression has had on my life.”
These works are part of nearly 150 student pieces displayed at Zuccaire Gallery’s annual Senior Show and URECA Art Exhibition. The event allows students to present their work to peers, faculty, staff, and the community. The exhibition also offers opportunities for students to sell their art or have it displayed in various administrative offices.
Karen Levitov, Director and Curator of Zuccaire Gallery, noted that this exhibition is consistently popular: “The Senior Show and URECA Student Art Exhibition is always our most popular exhibition." She highlighted this year's increased number of artworks and sculptures made from various materials such as bronze and wood.
Georgia LaMair Tomczak emphasized the exhibition's role in showcasing students' skills: “It is a wonderful opportunity for students of the College of Arts and Sciences Department of Art to showcase the skills they’ve learned.” Jason Paradis, who coordinates the URECA Art Exhibition, expressed admiration for the students’ creativity: “I’m always impressed by the ability of our students to exceed our expectations in quality and concept for the work they create.”
This year’s exhibition includes over 50 works across multiple mediums like painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, digital arts, video, and mixed media. Paradis attributed this increase to a growing studio department.
David Wrobel, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, emphasized support for artistic endeavors: “More than ever it’s important to support the arts.” Rick Gatteau praised Stony Brook's artistic community: “We have an incredibly talented and passionate community of artists here.”
Stuelke expressed gratitude towards his professor Lorena Salcedo-Watson for nominating his piece. Salcedo-Watson remarked on her selection process: “It is always an honor to be able to select excellent and important work."
Moore shared her excitement about having her work displayed at Zuccaire Gallery: “I’m really proud to have my work displayed here... It feels way more professional.”
The URECA show concluded on May 9; however, the Senior Show continues until May 23 during gallery hours.