Sexually edgy images spark controversy in art show

Admission office expresses concern

By: Amy Dodds

Posted: 2/28/08

The Small Colleges Art Show is a culmination of the best art among six different schools. The work is of the best quality but in every art show there is bound to be work that raises eyebrows. This show is no exception.

Representatives from the admissions department expressed their specific concerns for the recent senior exhibition that came through campus last week. The question was raised whether pieces of art that do not necessarily represent the higher standards of SAU should be on display during the exhibition. Randy Comfort, the Director of Admissions, said, "We want to be careful of how SAU is reflected to the public. The difference is that our students here have the opportunity to talk about the issues raised."

The controversial pieces included subjects like teenage sex, rape and drug abuse. The most controversial pieces came from Olivet University, Adrian College and Alma College. Since the pieces were clearly labeled as work from other schools, Comfort felt that it all the better represented the standard that SAU holds it's students to. Therefore the pieces remained on display.

High school students who are merely visiting the campus for a short period may question the pieces. And the art department is highly qualified to offer an apologetic for the art on display. "Our art department can handle any concerns very, very well," says Comfort.

Brian Shaw, the head of the art department, agrees with admissions that prospective students might perceive the school differently based on the art show. "This is a public gallery-we must be cautious of what we present to the public," said Shaw. But together, the departments agreed that the well-labeled pieces were an excellent opportunity to show that the school is not afraid to address difficult questions.

"It is a great opportunity to confront popular culture and mixed messages in media," said Shaw. "Shouldn't you want to talk about these things in a Christian setting?"

Shaw hopes the art department has a reputation as "responsible, trustworthy and having developed a high degree of excellence in representing Christ in the arts."

The show, which is on display only until March 9th, raises issues that are of interest to students in all disciplines.