Students skip the 'Grey' and enjoy color

By JENNY NOWATZKE
Scene Reporter

On a typical Thursday night, a person will most likely find a Creighton student studying for a test in the library, going downtown to enjoy a few drinks with friends, working or anxiously awaiting the return of “Grey’s Anatomy.”

However, a small group of Creighton students can be found in the basement of the Lied Art Center discussing what they know best — art.

The Creighton University Student Art League was founded more than 12 years ago by former Creighton student Cory McVey and Creighton professor Littleton Alston as a way for students interested in art to meet once a week and discuss what fascinated them most in the world of aesthetics.

“During our meetings, we discuss art openings in Omaha, upcoming lectures, special art events, exhibits, films and submission details,” said Renee Malloy, Arts & Sciences president. “Oftentimes, we just relax and talk about current events, school or life in general.”

The group also holds “Art Nights” and “Film Nights” on the third Thursday of every month, where they do life drawings, paintings, sculptures and view different independent films.

“Last year we had a photo scavenger hunt in the Old Market, where we split into teams and photographed random subjects,” Malloy said. “We also painted two murals for the Hawaiian Club Luau totaling 75 feet in length.”

The group, which consists of about 25 students, goes on walks through the Old Market to look at different galleries and attends art lectures at the Joslyn Art Museum.

“This group is important because, with medical, law, science and business schools on campus, sometimes the talents of the artistically inclined are overlooked or put second to career goals.” said Vanessa Espinosa, Arts & Sciences junior and SAL historian. “We aren’t all here to be artists, but sometimes we need a break to scribble something down or to admire what someone else has created.”

Because lectures and art supplies can be expensive, the group has been trying to get financial support from the university. But so far, they haven’t had any luck. The group holds several art sales each year to raise money to support the activities of the group.

For most of the members, SAL is vital to their well-being.

“The group is essential for both art and non-art majors,” Malloy said. “Everyone needs balance in life. Success requires a breadth of knowledge, and the visually illiterate are at a disadvantage. Culture is woven into the arts. One could argue that culture and art are inseparable. To neglect the arts is to miss out on important statements within history, and more importantly, the present.”

Recently, 74 new students registered to become members of the group. This is exciting news for current and past SAL members.

“When people gather to make or appreciate good art, whether the experience is like a spiritual revelation or just a fine cup of coffee, the world is healthier for it,” said Audrey Jacobs, Arts & Sciences junior and former SAL president. “People take away inspiration, solace and productivity. Groups like this are important to have everywhere, whether on a college campus, an elementary school or a Fortune 500 company.”

The group meets in room 104 of the Lied Education Center for the Arts on Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. For more information, contact SAL university moderator Tim Guthrie at tguthrie@creighton.edu.