Student art is everywhere at Ball State University. The student body is very gifted when it comes to the world of art. Appreciating and enjoying the art of Ball State is a worthwhile endeavor. It is inexpensive, often free, and can be very rewarding if you know what you like and what you're looking for.
The great thing about art is that a deep knowledge is not required in order to enjoy it. It is not required to have knowledge of classical music in order to sit in Sursa Hall and listen to students performing a classic piece. Even if you know nothing about the world of physical art, be it sculpture, drawings, photographs or paintings, a stroll through the student art gallery is very enjoyable and relaxing, especially in these weeks of school where deadlines loom over us all. Even if you have no enjoyment of writing yourself, student publications are a great way to kick back and relax and forget all about the worries of the day. If the written word is not your thing, going to a show at the theater is a great place to unwind after a long week.
The greatest part of supporting student art is that it supports the students. Going to University Theatre to see a show like "Urinetown" shows solidarity for the students in the theater department who pour themselves into their work. A show at the theater costs no more than a movie with popcorn. People go to these same shows around the country and indeed around the world, spending much more money than a student does here at Ball State. The theater is a wonderful part of Ball State life. We all should take advantage of it.
The world of writing at Ball State is another artistic aspect of our university. The Creative Writing department recently printed another copy of their literary journal known as the "Broken Plate." The "Broken Plate" is a wonderful and diverse collection of undergraduate writing. If you enjoy poetry, fiction, non-fiction, drama or any other form of writing, there is something in the "Broken Plate" you would enjoy.
The school of music also puts on a great set of shows for students and faculty throughout the year. Their shows are of a great quality and plentiful in number. This is a great resource of culture and art - but unfortunately many students simply do not take advantage of this.
The student art galleries have numerous wonderful pieces of art that are out on display for all to enjoy. Going and looking at sculptures, paintings and photographs is a great way to spend an afternoon. It gives you an appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the artists. It's easy and free and close; three things important when choosing an activity for the day.
Art is one of those things that is impossible to define but easy to appreciate. It is all around us here at Ball State. The Ball State world of art can give you that much needed break in between essays and studying. It is a great idea for how to spend a weekend.
Take some time out of your day and enjoy Ball State art. It is up to us to appreciate and take advantage of the world of art around us.
Write to Alex at apcarroll@bsu.edu
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
