Georgian faculty and students host “Re-Emerge” art exhibit

The Campus Gallery, a somewhat hidden gem within Georgian’s Barrie Campus, boasts a unique feature. Not only is it a professional public art gallery, it’s also a space for students to engage with artists and explore the ins and outs of the museum and gallery industry.

Now showing at The Campus Gallery

On now until Feb. 5, students from Georgian’s Museum and Gallery Studies program are hosting an exhibition to highlight work from Design and Visual Arts faculty. The current exhibit titled “Re-Emerge” is curated by the students and includes creations that originated during, and as a response to, the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to the exhibit, there will be a faculty panel discussion on Feb. 2. The panelists will field prepared questions about upcoming projects and programs, followed by an open discussion on the state of arts education moderated by the students. Both the exhibit and panel discussion are free to attend and open to the public.

Georgian programs rooted in hands-on, experiential learning

As part of their program, Museum and Gallery Studies students have the opportunity to participate in curating various exhibits. From implementing marketing needs and interacting with artists, to art installation and event management, the students get a real taste of working in a gallery.

A piece of artwork with various sizes of blue bubbles scattered together.
Amy Switzer, Untitled, 2022, Porcelain, 32″ x 30″

“This is more than just a theoretical post-grad program. Students gain first-hand knowledge working with artists and guest curators to bridge their education and future careers. By organizing and hosting the “Re-Emerge” exhibit and panel talk, the students expand their professional networks, put their knowledge into practice and work closely with their peers and panelists. In other words, students build their own resumé while being academically supported.”

– Amy Bagshaw, Program Co-ordinator, Museum and Gallery Studies

Ahead of the panel discussion, Gayle Fortin, a current Museum and Gallery Studies student shares her excitement about the program and the event.

 “Collaborating with my professors, classmates and other artists has been an incredible experience,” Gayle said. “I’ve been involved with many moving parts of this event including preparing questions for the panel discussion, and collaborating on the name of the exhibit! For me, the best part has been working with the artists to understand their art and their intention, and designing an exhibition where many very different pieces come together with a singular expression. The goal is to create the best gallery experience possible all while staying true to each artist’s vision.” 

“Because of events like these I’ve made so many industry connections, and I’m confident knowing I’ll graduate with a loaded resumé, plus an education. The hands-on aspect of this program has put me a step ahead and I feel comfortable working in, or even owning my own gallery space one day.”

Interested in checking out the exhibit and panel discussion?

Read more about the Re-Emerge exhibit, on now until Feb. 5.

Read more about the panel discussion on Feb. 2 from 10 to 11 a.m.  

Both events take place at The Campus Gallery, located in the Helen and Arch Brown Centre for Visual Arts (D building) at the Barrie Campus. Get directions to the Barrie Campus and view a campus map.

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