Howard Payne University’s School of Music and Fine Arts is presenting “A Collaboration of Differences,” a student art exhibit showcasing works created by students Kelsey Duvall, a senior from Brownwood; Allison Harp, a senior from Ovilla; Ashley McLaughlin, a senior from Brownwood; and Danielle Wells, a senior from Terrell.

“The paintings in this exhibit reflect the unique perspectives of the four individual artists,” said Ann Smith, chair of HPU’s Department of Art. “Allison’s paintings are an expression of the injustices she witnessed on a trip to Latin America, while Ashley’s paintings are inspired by nature. Danielle’s paintings are inspired by surrealism, a modern art style that originated in the early part of the twentieth century. Kelsey’s paintings are the reflections of her numerous trips to Africa and the impact of the people she met, especially the children.”

The show displays art that the students have been working on throughout the semester. Josh Pickens, assistant professor of art, directed the students in their art work that led to this exhibition.

“These paintings are powerful and show a depth of thought and technique,” Smith said. “One of the privileges of being an art professor is to watch students grow and mature in art as well as life. These four art students show that growth and maturity.”

The exhibit is being held in the Dorothy and Wendell Mays Art Gallery at the university’s Doakie Day Art Center, 1308 Center Avenue, weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through Dec.12. For more information, please contact HPU’s School of Music and Fine Arts at 325-649-8500.

Pictured above:  HPU students Ashley McLaughlin, Danielle Wells, Kelsey Duvall and Allison Harp celebrate the opening of their art show at HPU’s Doakie Day Art Center.