Welcome, Friends, to your CVAD Update!

Message from Dean Hutzel

Sept. 17, 2024

Hello, Friends,

As we step into another vibrant academic year, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and excitement. The start of the fall semester has been invigorating, with 2,623 students joining us and a promising increase in CVAD student credit hours. These numbers are a testament to our shared commitment to elevating the transformative power of visual arts and design and realizing our vision of becoming an internationally recognized college known for providing opportunities, taking chances, and changing lives.

This year, we’re particularly thrilled about a new milestone: the Edna Manley College of Visual and Performing Arts, EMCVPA, in Kingston, Jamaica, and CVAD have embarked on an inspiring partnership. This collaboration establishes a clear pathway for purposeful programming and joint efforts between our institutions and the cultural regions of Kingston, Jamaica, and Denton-Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. As the premier arts college of the English-speaking Caribbean, EMCVPA brings a rich cultural heritage to our partnership. With Jamaica’s international reputation in reggae music and vibrant arts scene, we look forward to exploring exciting opportunities such as hosting artists and scholars, creating collaborative online courses, and pursuing student and faculty exchanges. This partnership marks a significant step in our commitment to enriching our educational and research landscapes while celebrating culture. These initiatives aim to advance cultural understanding, enhance scholarship, and foster innovation within our academic communities.

I am also eager to invite you to a very special event in our CVAD Gallery. Starting on Oct. 1st, we will host the exhibition “Labor of Luxury: Embroidery From India to the World,” showcasing exquisite artifacts from our Texas Fashion Collection to celebrate the luxury and artistry of Indian artisans and designers. We are honored to welcome world-renowned fashion designer Ashish Gupta — famously known as the King of Sequins and the designer behind the stunning gowns worn by numerous celebrities — as our special guest at the reception on Oct. 24. Please consider wearing something with sequins to this celebration of artistry. This event is made possible through the generous support of artifact donors, designer Ashish Gupta, the Mercedes T. Bass Charitable Corporation, the Denton Visual Arts Center, and the UNT Mary Jo and V. Lane Rawlins Fine Arts Series. The Greater Denton Arts Council will also host "A Conversation with ASHISH" at the Patterson-Appleton Arts on Oct. 23.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to CVAD. Here’s to a season filled with creativity, collaboration, and continued excellence.

Warm regards,

Karen Hutzel, Ph.D.
Dean and Professor

College of Visual Arts and Design
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As CVAD's part of the UNT System, our actions, decisions, and approach to challenges and opportunities are guided by our shared values: Courageous Integrity, Curiosity, We Care, Better Together, and Show Your Fire!

Do you remember your first week at UNT? 

This is the class of 2028! CVAD hosted incoming first-year and transfer students in the Art Building to meet faculty, tour the building, participate in special activities, and enjoy popsicles on a hot August day. Email a picture of yourself as an undergrad for the December newsletter; help us go down Memory Lane, cvad.Information@unt.edu.

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Embrace the Opulence: Indian Embroidery Takes Center Stage in Global Fashion 

The magic of shimmering sequins, intricate beadwork, and delicate embroidery elevates everyday garments into extraordinary fashion statements. These sophisticated techniques have captivated fashion lovers worldwide, yet few know their origin — India, the birthplace of these dazzling surface designs.

"Labor of Luxury: Embroidery from India to the World" is a CVAD Gallery exhibition that celebrates the artistry of Indian artisans, showcasing high-fashion garments adorned with intricate surface motifs. Featuring over 30 exquisite designs by renowned Indian and Euro-American fashion luminaries such as Ashish Gupta, Oscar de la Renta, Naeem Khan, Mary McFadden, Todd Oldham, Dries Van Noten, and Vera Wang, this exhibition invites you to explore the creativity, craftsmanship, and labor behind these luxurious creations. All events are free and open to the public. Read more and learn about the upcoming guided tours of the exhibition. 

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CVAD Studio Art Department Unveils 2024 M.F.A. Catalog

The CVAD Department of Studio Art is proud to announce the release of its "2024 M.F.A. Catalogue," celebrating the achievements of the graduating class of 2024. This publication highlights the exceptional work developed over three years of dedicated studio practice, rigorous critical dialogue, and innovative creative exploration. These emerging artists have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their craft and intellectual growth, leaving behind a legacy of research, creativity, and academic excellence. To explore past publications, visit the CVAD Senior Shows and M.F.A. Catalogs web page on this website.

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Brooks Oliver Elected Board President of a Leading Renowned Ceramics Institution

Assistant Professor Brooks Oliver, Studio Art: Ceramics, recently was elected president of the board of directors of the Archie Bray Foundation. Ceramics majors and aficionados may already know the Archie Bray Foundation for its prestigious place in the world of ceramics arts. It is a public, non-profit educational institution in Helena, Montana, at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. 

The foundation hosts 20-25 resident artists and 15 visiting artists annually. It is a key player in Helena and Montana's artistic and economic life, contributing an estimated $5 million annually.

Oliver completed a two-year residency at the Bray from 2014 to 2016, which he describes as a pivotal experience in his career. The residency offered time, space, and resources to focus on his art and professional development, allowing him to grow as an artist and build a national reputation through exhibitions.

As Board Chair, Oliver’s responsibilities include overseeing board meetings, serving on various committees, and representing the foundation. He emphasizes Bray’s unique role in fostering collaboration and innovation in ceramics, providing an environment where artists from diverse backgrounds can exchange ideas and push the field forward. The foundation is not about structured learning but focuses on supporting each artist's needs and goals.

CVAD News and Views recently interviewed Oliver about his role as the new board chair and his experiences as a resident artist and a leader in the ceramics community. Read more.

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"The Atlas of Art Crime" Explores the Thrilling World of Art Heists, Forgery, and Vandalism Across History

In "The Atlas of Art Crime," Laura Evans, associate professor of Art Education and UNT Distinguished Teaching Professor, delves into the global history of art crime, presenting 75 gripping stories of theft, forgery, and vandalism. Organized geographically and thematically, the book uncovers the motivations behind these crimes — greed, revenge, power to love, equity, and idealism.

Featuring accounts from ancient history to the modern era, it includes images of masterpieces, criminals, investigators, and crime scenes, offering readers a compelling view of the shadowy side of the art world. Published by Prestel, the book is available in multiple languages. Read more.

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Catch up with a few alums in the spotlight here; see more on our Alumni Profiles page. May we include you? Email cvad.Information@unt.edu to let us know. To view the senior shows of our newest alums, please visit the 2024 Senior Shows.

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Sept. 21, 3:30–5 p.m.: Roundtable Discussion with Mónica Salazar, Art History lecturer, "Humor, A Common Language in a Politically Divided Family," Keijsers Koning, 150 Manufacturing St, #201, Dallas, TX 75207

Through Sept. 28: Exhibitions "Future Kin" by Liss LaFleur and "Latent Constructions" by Paho Mann, Galleri Urbane, 2277 Monitor St. Dallas, 75207

Through Oct. 31: Exhibition "Iluminaciones: Miradas a los Helechos en Colombia" by Dornith Doherty, Botanical Garden of Medellín, Colombia.

Through Nov. 17: Exhibition "Archiving Eden: Exchange" by Dornith Doherty, Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, Arcadia, California.

Oct. 5–26: "Is It Real?," a rooftop exhibition that includes Alicia Eggert at Lagoon, 1105 Lagoon Drive, Dallas, 75207

Oct. 3–4, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.: Three CVAD Departments participate in University Research Day; read the story.

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"Breathing Under Water" by Jim T. Wilson, M.F.A., Studio Art, 34.25" x 47" mixed media on panel, 2024

Journey of New Beginnings: 'Breathing Under Water' Honors Life and Legacy of Former UNT President Smatresk

Dean Karen Hutzel proposed purchasing a piece of art as a shared gift from the UNT vice presidents and deans to celebrate UNT President Neal Smatresk's retirement in August 2024. Provost Mike McPherson, the vice presidents and the deans agreed, knowing Neal and Debbie Smatresk appreciate original art. Being familiar with their style, Hutzel suggested Jim T. Wilson, a CVAD alum and advancement board member. After consulting Debbie, who trusted Hutzel's judgment, Hutzel visited Wilson's studio in McKinney, Texas, to select a piece of his existing art. Wilson, however, offered to create a custom piece for Neal, drawing inspiration from Neal's background in biology and his retirement from the presidency. Debbie provided photos of the room where the art would hang, and Wilson documented the creation process with a book of images.

Wilson says this piece was inspired by the idea of life as a journey, like a hike through an uncharted forest. The abstract forest depicted represents the uncertainty and adventure of this journey. Central to the painting is a square sun, symbolizing a sunrise — an emblem of new beginnings rather than a sunset, reflecting Neal’s transition into a new chapter of his life.

The two horizon lines convey different elements of this journey: one represents the land where the forest stands, and the other represents the boundless horizon of the ocean. This duality suggests the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. In a nod to President Smatresk's early research on the respiratory evolution from aquatic to aerial breathing, Wilson said he included a subtle image of an ancient fossil, symbolizing the bridge between the past and the future. The trees within the forest were crafted from strips of World Book encyclopedias, specifically from Smatresk's childhood years. These strips connect the piece to his roots and personal history. Finally, the fiducial marks overlaying the painting serve as static reference points, echoing the significant milestones throughout his life.

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Did you study abroad while at UNT? We would love to share your adventures; please email us your photos for an upcoming newsletter! CVAD.Information@unt.edu.

London Study Abroad: Art History

This summer, two graduate and 11 undergraduate students in Professor Denise Amy Baxter's classes explored the history, organization, intents and functions of art museums in one of the most influential global cities! The program offered students experience in London, home to some of the world's most widely recognized museums and artwork. Site visits included the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Tate Modern, the National Gallery, and the British Museum.

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Florence Study Abroad: Studio Art

This summer, 18 CVAD students participated in the month-long Studio Art in Florence course led by Andrew DeCaen, associate professor, and Christian Fagerlund, then-principal lecturer. Each morning, the students sketched on location at Florence’s renowned museums, palaces, churches, piazzas, gardens, markets, and contemporary art exhibitions. They honed their figure drawing and monotype printmaking skills at the Santa Reparata International School of Art in the evenings. Immersed in a rich artistic and cultural environment, the students experienced intensive studio practice, fostering personal and artistic growth while forming lasting connections and gaining a global perspective.

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Please consider contributing to the CVAD Community Art and Design Supply Shelf, where your generosity can inspire the next generation of artists and designers. Whether you have extra art supplies, books on art, art education, art history, or design, your donation will make a meaningful impact.

To donate supplies or books, please get in touch with our CVAD Facilities Manager, Jeff McClung, at Jeffrey.McClung@unt.edu or call 940-369-7237.

Senior Associate Dean Eric Ligon would love to hear from you if you would prefer to support our supply fund directly. Contact him at Eric.Ligon@unt.edu, or 940-565-4001.

Thank you for helping us nurture creativity and innovation!

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"The Atlas of Art Crime" Laura Evans, associate professor of Art Education and UNT University Distinguished Teaching Professor. Read more about it.

Trouble in Censorville: The Far Right's Assault on Public Education—and the Teachers Who Are Fighting Back" is co-edited by Nadine Kalin, professor of art Education.

Weaving with Wire: Creating Woven Metal Fabric" Christine K. Miller, 2005, B.A., Art Education. Follow Christine on Instagram, @ChristineKMillerFiberArtist.

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CVAD Upcoming Events | UNT Alumni Calendar | UNT Events Calendar | Gallery Exhibitions
Sept. 21, 9:30 a.m. to noon: Annual Scholarship Awards Presentation, University Union, Lyceum Theater, Room 226
Through Sept. 28: Faculty exhibitions, "Future Kin" by Liss LaFleur and "Latent Constructions" by Paho Mann, Galleri Urbane, 2277 Monitor St. Dallas, 75207
October is National Design Month!
Oct. 1, 2024–Feb. 25, 2025: "Labor of Luxury: Embroidery from India to the World," CVAD Gallery, Art Building, Room 160
Oct. 5–26: "Is It Real?" rooftop exhibition by Associate Professor Alicia Eggert at Lagoon, 1105 Lagoon Drive, Dallas, 75207
Oct. 18, 6–9 p.m.: Mad Hatter Soirée, HEART Awards presentations, Patterson-Appleton Arts Center, 400 E Hickory St, Denton
Oct. 21–26: UNT Homecoming Week
Oct. 23, 6–7 p.m.: Conversation with Ashish," the designer nicknamed "King of Sequins," Patterson Appleton Arts Center, Denton
Oct. 24, 5–7:30 p.m.: Exhibition reception with designer Ashish Gupta for "Labor of Luxury: The Art of Embroidery From India to the World," CVAD Art Gallery, Room 160
Oct. 26: Homecoming Game — UNT vs. Tulane, DATCU Stadium
Nov. 5: Vote
Nov. 28–29: Fall Holiday Break, campus closed
Dec. 17: "Friends of CVAD" e-newsletter publication day
Dec. 23–27, 2024 and Dec. 30, 2024–Jan. 1, 2025: Winter Holiday Break, campus closed

Tag #UNTCVAD in your social media posts!

Gif courtesy of alumna Megan Lockhart, Class of 2010