news-category: Academics Summer Undergraduate Research Gives Hannah Smith, ’21, Direction for her Future By Office of University Communications On July 10, 2020 Project Explores the Use of Body Language in Artwork While exploring the works of artists like Käthe Kollwitz, Edgar Degas and Bo Bartlett, Gardner-Webb University art major Hannah Smith discovered her own artistic strengths. Smith was one of 11 GWU students who received a grant from the GWU Undergraduate Research Scholars Program for the summer term. Students worked 40 hours a week for five weeks on their projects, which they are required to present in a professional forum. Each one had a faculty mentor or collaborator who worked with them. Smith worked with Susan Bell, professor of art, and she plans to present her full portfolio, artist statement and research paper in her senior show in spring of 2021. “Exhausted” by Hannah Smith “My research project centered around the use of body language in art and the psychology behind gestures, facial expressions, and hand movements,” described Smith, of Vienna, Va., “I studied styles such as Baroque and Expressionism. I used pen and ink, and acrylic paints to create my portfolio exploring body language, and more specifically, portraits that focus on the face and hands of the models.” One of the challenges she faced was narrowing her focus from the vast amount of information she found on her subject. “Everyone from the beginning of time has drawn the human figure and evolved the way that the figure is shown, and the emotions displayed are truly astounding,” observed Smith. “For instance, the way we use our hands when we talk or the twitch of an eyebrow can tell you more about what a person is feeling than the words that come from their lips.” While drawing her sketches, she discerned her future path. “It helped me as a person and an artist to narrow my subject matter and the art field I want to go into,” Smith related. “I would not make money being a big landscape artist, because I hate painting backgrounds. But I have found while doing sketches of the figures beforehand, that I enjoy designing characters, whether for a book or a TV show. After getting higher education in the field, I can see myself creating art for an animation company.” Her advice to others who are considering applying to do undergraduate research? “Your heart has to be all the way in it, doing something you love is so much easier than doing something for the satisfaction of others,” she affirmed. “Your topic can change as you do more research. The change means that you are discovering new information and broadening your perspective, which means you’ll also grow and discover yourself, too.” Hannah Smith’s preliminary sketches for “Exhausted” and “Frustration” “Under the Weather” by Hannah Smith Located in the North Carolina foothills, Gardner-Webb University is a private, Christian, liberal arts university. Gardner-Webb emphasizes a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics to prepare students to become effective leaders within the global community. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.
News Article Gardner-Webb University Orchestra Presents Spring Concert on April 22 Program Features Bass Flute Soloist Hailey Rodden and World-Premiere of Work by GWU Alumnus Caleb Etchison BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The 60-member Gardner-Webb University Orchestra, under the direction of Professor Dr. Patricia Sparti, will present its spring concert on Monday, April 22, at 7 p.m. in Dover Theatre. The program, which should run just over an hour, […] Office of University Communications | April 16, 2024
News Article Gardner-Webb Sigma Zeta National Honor Society Inducts New Members Students Recognized for Academic Achievement in Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Computer Science BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Beta Tau Chapter of Sigma Zeta National Honor Society held its induction ceremony in March. Nineteen students were recognized as new members, and the new officers were installed. Graduating seniors were also recognized. New members received membership certificates, and graduating […] Office of University Communications | April 15, 2024
News Article Communication, Art and Design Showcase Features Works of 30 Gardner-Webb Students Over 60 Pieces Created by Students for Their Spring Coursework BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Thirty students in the Gardner-Webb Department of Communication, Art and Design will showcase over 60 pieces of their work in the 2024 Student Showcase. The display will hang in the Communication Studies Hall, 141 S. Main St., through May 2. The opening reception […] Office of University Communications | April 15, 2024