Southwestern University’s Sarofim School of Fine Arts’ Studio Art student and alumnae have recently earned quite the recognition in Austin. Student Sofia Payne ’18 and alumnae Kelsey Baker ’16 were chosen to present their art in the 14th Annual People’s Gallery Exhibition at Austin City Hall beginning this February. The People’s Gallery is designed to showcase the work of regional artists and to encourage public dialogue, understanding, and enjoyment of visual art. Every year, the Cultural Arts Division issues a call for artworks to Austin-area artists, galleries, museums, and arts organizations, and presents a yearlong exhibition of works by over 100 local artists. The exhibition will open on Friday, February 23, 2018 to begin its yearlong residence.

This exhibition will feature the work of 102 artists from all across the Austin area showcasing a wide array of mediums, including painting, sculpture, drawing, and more. The public is invited to attend the gallery and vote for their favorite piece of artwork to award the “People’s Choice”. The top-voted artwork is then purchased by the city and added to Austin’s permanent collection. The 2018 Selection Panelists were arts educator and artist Teruko Nimura, artist and preparator for the Blanton Museum of Art John Sager, and artist and Professor of Art at St. Edward’s University Tammie Rubin.

The opening reception for the exhibition will take place on Friday, February 23, 6 to 9 p.m. The public is welcomed to view works of art throughout City Hall, to meet the participating artists, to enjoy live music by the Austin Community Steelband, and to hear remarks from Austin Mayor Steve Adler.

We are so proud of both Sarofim artists and their acceptance into such a selective exhibition! Payne and Baker’s dedication, hard work, and creativity have landed them amongst some of the greatest artist in the Austin area. You can learn more about the People’s Gallery Exhibition at http://www.austintexas.gov/peoplesgallery.