After hosting exhibits with the works of various professional artists over the past year, the Samford University Art Gallery currently is displaying art created by the school’s students as part of its Annual Juried Show. 

Running until April 26, this annual exhibit showcases the best of Samford’s visual arts department. Students submit their work to be judged by a professional artist, who chooses pieces to be displayed in the exhibit. Approximately 275 pieces were submitted this year. A total of 49 works from 30 students were chosen to hang in the gallery. The pieces on display include paintings, drawings, sculptures and displays. 

The judge then chooses the best of the displayed works, highlighting outstanding features in categories such as best of show, 2D art and 3D art. This year, Birmingham-based painter Roger Jones served as judge.  

“The students are excited because they see what the other students are doing,” said Robin Snyder, gallery director. “It gives students an opportunity to see the process, including submitting work, and either having it accepted or rejected.” 

The exhibit and the Best in Show award are being sponsored by Samford arts patrons Michael J. and Mary Anne Freeman of Birmingham.

The gallery is open to the public weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A reception and awards presentation will take place from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. April 26. 

The gallery is located in Swearingen Hall. 

Jimmy Lichtenwalter is a journalism and mass communication major and a news and feature writer in the Division of Marketing and Communication.