Union College's McClelland Gallery features alumni photographers show

Posted by: Union College

Whether timing the perfect candid, constructing a scene or digitally manipulating elements after the fact, there are a myriad ways photographers interact with their tools and their world to create art. The Young Alumni Art Exhibit on display in the McClelland Art Gallery showcases a wide range of styles, encouraging visitors to consider what makes a photo a work of art.

Running from August 23 through September 5, the exhibit features four to six works from each of 13 alumni under the age of 40. According to Angie Peach, the event organizer, the show serves two purposes, connecting alumni with similar interests and encouraging current students to hone their skills. “We planned the exhibit to coincide with the first two weeks of school because we want to set a high bar for the year and show students what they can do with commitment,” Peach said.

Peach plans to make the exhibit an annual event, and has already been contacted by alumni who wish to be included next year.

“This is a really great opportunity for some of us to reconnect with the college and old friends who have a passion for the arts,” said Ed Mejia, a 1998 graduate and one of the participating photographers. “I remember seeing special alumni events for other segments of the college experience, like athletes and musicians, but this is the first time I know of that visual artists have been reunited. It's a real honor to be asked to be a part of a photography exhibit with other talented alumni, so many of whom are my friends.”

Michael Steingas, one of four participating artists to graduate last May, echoed Mejia’s sentiment of staying involved with his alma mater despite moving on to a new phase of life. "I enjoyed every opportunity I had to get involved at Union,” Steingas said. “It’s great to know I can continue being part of that community even though I'm no longer in Lincoln.”

Rather than an opening, the Young Alumni Art Exhibit will have a reception during the middle of its run. Patrons are invited to meet some of the participating artists on Sunday, Aug. 29, from 7-9 p.m. Refreshments will be provided.

The McClelland Art Gallery is in the Ortner Center on the Union College campus, 3800 S. 48th Street. Enter the campus from Prescott Avenue. The art gallery is free to the public and open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, contact the Ortner Center at 402.486.2545.