“WCJC has a strong tradition in the visual arts,” said Jess Coleman, WCJC art instructor. “Our students receive a strong foundation to continue their studies at the university level and pursue art careers. This show is a small example of the success of our alumni.”
WCJC alumni artists in the show include Diana Atchetee, Avery Espinoza, Mary Beth Langston and Melanie Nickolyn.
Atchetee, a 2002 graduate of WCJC, has been a self-employed professional artist for more than nine years. She graduated summa cum laude with a B.F.A. in Studio Art, specializing in painting, from Texas State University in 2005. Her art displays flora and fauna in relation to human emotions and traits. Last December she was invited to exhibit in the Florence Biennale in Italy. In addition, a film, “When Angels Sing,” starring Willie Nelson and currently in production, features one of Atchetee’s paintings.
Espinoza, who completed his studies at WCJC in 2006, enjoys telling stories with his art through the use of personal symbolism. He served as an electriciansmate in the U.S. Navy from 1997 until 2003, completing three Gulf tours and achieving the rank of Petty Officer 2nd class. Espinoza graduated summa cum laude with a B.F.A. in Advertising and Graphic Design from Sam Houston State University (SHSU) in 2010. He is self-employed and recently completed the logo and identity for SHSU’s new James & Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center.
Langston, a 2007 graduate of WCJC, believes color expresses her state of mind in her artwork. She earned a B.F.A. in Painting and Drawing from Sam Houston State University in 2011. While there, she exhibited in various shows such as “Follow the Black Rabbit,” “We Art Here” and “The Human Form.” She took Best in Show at “We Art Here,” juried by Kat Black and curated by the SHSU Student Art Association. Langston currently resides in Spring, Texas where she shares her passion for art with those around her.
Nickolyn, a 2004 graduate of WCJC, loves observing people and carries a sketchbook wherever she goes. The Wharton native graduated cum laude from Texas State University with a B.F.A. in 2008. She currently is assistant manager of The Bazaar, a small boutique in Austin, Texas. There she uses her artistic skills to assist musicians, actors and other performing artists in buying and using theatrical/special effects makeup, wigs, costumes and the like. She is also working on her portfolio to enter graduate school.
“Perspectives” can be viewed through April 27 in the WCJC Art Gallery from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. weekdays, excluding holidays.
For additional information about the alumni art show, or the art classes offered at WCJC, contact the WCJC Fine Arts Department at 979.532.6300 or 1.800.561.9252, ext. 6300.
