Work in progress

Work in progress

Sometimes art is natural for someone to learn. A lot of people start doing it when they are young and continue to work on it in the future.

Patricia Avery, student, said she has always been involved with art. “I always enjoyed doing art since I was a little kid,” Avery said. “I started back when I was in preschool and [have] loved it ever since.” Avery’s main focus in art is working with ceramics, but she also enjoys doing painting, paper maché, and drawing.

Avery, a Brown and Gold (B&G) member, said she took advantage of the ceramics and art. “When I became a [B&G] member ceramics was an option that was open,” Avery said. She also loves the instructors she has had through the years. “I think my instructors are awesome,” Avery said. “I’m very impressed with the ones at the college and around the Kansas City area.”

Avery attended an art presentation at the Nelson Museum. She thought they were really passionate and they have methods that are easy for students to understand. Avery also said her hairstyling influences her ceramic work.

“My hairstyling influenced me a lot like dental hygiene did for me in the past,” Avery said. “I worked a lot on people’s heads and I’m currently working on a self portrait.” She said that art is very challenging and her instructors and peers encourage her to loosen up and take it easy. She strives to receive full enjoyment from her work.

Avery has been involved with Art Therapy workshops with Avis Garrett Baptist. “Avis lectures a lot on art therapy but I enjoy the work I do in there,” Avery said. “I work with painting on canvases and silk and make masks.” She was interested in attending Avila University to obtain a Master’s Degree, but the institution does not offer an art program anymore.

“I don’t know if the art program will come back,” Avery said. “Emporia State is the only school I know of that offers a Fine Arts program that I’m interested in.” Avery said she still has a dream of wanting to do more art and attending a school of her interest. She said she has enjoyed working with the campus community.

“The energy around here is great,” Avery said. “There are many challenges along the way but it’s helpful.