MSU art students featured, awarded at University Open art exhibit 

Morehead State University students are showcasing their artwork at one of the largest competitive juried shows in the state.  

Five students from MSU's Department of Art and Design had their pieces juried into the competitive University Open at the LexArts Gallery in Lexington. The exhibit highlights emerging artists that are fine arts majors from Kentucky's colleges and universities.  

MSU student artists exhibiting at the University Open include:  

• Logan Carnes (Photography) – Senior from Gray, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Art.  
• Chelby Justice (Photography) – Senior from Hardy, pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art.  
• Morgan Krantz (3D) – Sophomore from Ashland, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Art.  
• Brandon Trent (Ceramics) – Senior from Morehead, pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art.  
• Maija Wehr (3D) – Sophomore from Dry Ridge, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Art.  

MSU was one of 10 Kentucky universities represented in the exhibition. MSU students also received three of the seven awards at the awards ceremony. Wehr received a second-place award, while Justice and Trent received an Honorable Mention.  

"The number of MSU students selected for the University Open demonstrates the high quality of instruction provided in our art and design program throughout all levels, freshman through senior, and in both 2D and 3D," said Professor of Art Lisa Mesa-Gaido. "Part of our commitment to student preparation and success is faculty informing them of professional opportunities and individually encouraging and assisting them with applying."  

Krantz, whose artwork adorned the University Open's promotional materials, said displaying her art among her peers at a large exhibition was a fantastic opportunity.  

"My time at the exhibition is unlike anything I have experienced. Interacting with visitors at the exhibition and participating in the Gallery Hop hosted by LexArts, has opened my eyes to the loving arts community. The artists I met were engaging and were very passionate about their works," Krantz said. "This inspired me to be more involved myself. All the teachers here at MSU provide us encouragement and opportunities. I, for one, appreciate them all and look forward to many more opportunities."  

The University Open exhibit is at the LexArts Gallery at 161 N. Mill Street in Lexington. It is on display through Friday, June 30.  

Learn more about programs in MSU's Department of Communication, Media, Art & Design by emailing cmad@moreheadstate.edu or calling 606-783-2457.