Area artists have a new outlet to display their creative works.
Heidelberg University's first Women's History Month art show is to be March 22-29, with the works to be displayed in The University Commons on campus.
"When we formed the Women's Leadership Initiative last spring, we asked the students involved ... what they would like to see on campus for women," said Julie Hada, co-director of Women's Leadership Initiative.
Article Photos
Hada said women told officials what they felt was missing and what they wanted out of their campus experience. One idea suggested was an art show dedicated to women, she said.
"This is a student-generated idea," she said.
Last month, Dustin Brentlinger, dean of student affairs, told people involved in the group about some extra funding for Women's History Month and asked what they would like to do with it. The first thing that came to mind was putting on the art show, Hada said.
Hada said the only stipulation of entering art in the show is it has to fit the theme of "empowering women through education."
Heidelberg is taking submissions from students, faculty, staff and community members.
"Anyone can enter. ... It's really open to everyone," she said.
The show is to have five categories, including creative writing, fine art, graphic design, performing art and photography, and people can enter one piece per category.
There is no entry fee. Entry forms must be received by March 20, and submissions should be delivered to Hada in University Hall 201 by 4:30 p.m. March 21.
According to information from Heidelberg, there is to be an informal opening March 22, and a formal awards reception is to be 7 p.m. March 29.
Individual category winners and the people's choice winner are to receive $100, and the best in show winner is to receive $200. The best in show winner cannot win other prizes, according to the information.
More information can be obtained by emailing wli@heidelberg.edu.
Hada said she is looking forward to the show and is thrilled to be part of it. Sophomore Crystal Betts is helping organize the show as well.
Heidelberg has an art minor but not an art major, and Hada said she thinks it will be interesting to bring that element to campus.
"I also greatly appreciate the arts and was active in them myself when I was in school," she said.
Hada said Women's Leadership Initiative is working to empower female students on campus and teach all students about leadership.
"We have a leadership certificate that we offer," she said.
