Do you ever walk around and try to take the time to see the beauty in your surroundings? Do you find yourself having creative urges and rushing to try and flesh out your ideas? What about wanting to express yourself in a concentrated skill for emotional empowerment? You are not alone my friend! Art is such a diverse field of visual, auditory, and performing expression that we as a species have been collectively creating for as long as we have existed. Supporting local art and artists can be a powerful experience since all art is trying to show/ teach you something. If you are free and here in Southern Oregon, go and check out SOU’s exhibits! Having all forms of media showcased in the University’s  Schneider Art Museum and Stevenson Union student work is always being displayed. Check some of it out below!

Art in the art building:

From paintings to pottery, the creativity and talent displayed in SOU’s students is truly remarkable and breathtaking!

“What I was Wearing” Installation in the SU: Currently on display in the SU is an art installation titled, “What I was Wearing,” hosted by the Women’s Resource Center. This art installation centers around the myth that people, particularly women,  are “asking for it” when they are sexually assaulted because of the clothes they are wearing. To combat this, “What I was Wearing” showcases the pieces of clothing worn by sexual assault victims when they were sexually assaulted. This powerful art gallery brings to light something that society ignores: it’s never the victim’s fault. It’s never what they are wearing. You become face to face with this reality as you walk through the gallery. This art installation is powerful and necessary to highlight, especially in April, which is sexual assault awareness month. This is part of the Women’s Resource Center’s various programs and events to take part in sexual assault awareness month, which brings us closer as a campus. By the WRC doing this art gallery, our Raider community becomes more aware of the myth and helps us do our part in sexual assault prevention.

Art is something that can connect everyone. Each art piece creates emotional empowerment and a different story within each viewer. SOU provides unique art exhibits inside the Schneider Art Museum and Stevenson Union. The Schneider Art Museum prides itself on displaying diverse art and connecting with various audiences. The “What I was Wearing” is a perfect example by displaying art that connects with sexual assault victims. Aside from the messages that are provided within the art museums, the artist use their outstanding creativity and skills to produce amazing work for community members to enjoy. Whenever you get some free time, take a trip to the SOU campus and visit some of the art displays. The art is sure to catch your attention through its appearance or the story behind it. Art is about more than bright colors and creative sculptures, but the internal connections and empowerment. Hopefully visiting the Schneider and Stevenson Union will be a new experience for you.