Staff and students of Northwestern Oklahoma State University showed they are talented in more than just the major areas of study during the art show held at the university’s library and The Runnymede. For instance, Dr. Rod Murrow, Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and longtime professor of music, has a real talent in photography. His photo of the inside of the Capitol dome won best of show in the “Oklahoma!” category.
Alva High School graduate Willie Benson, now a student at NWOSU, exhibited many breathtaking pottery pieces including a tabletop fountain.
Former Alva High School art instructor Rod Dunkin had several winning entries in different categories. Hanging beside his pieces were abstract graphics in watercolor and other mediums by well known musician and adjunct instructor Max Ridgway.
Familiar names like Valarie Case and Dr. James Bowen blended their art with Mike Elsey, Stephen An, Kilicia Wharton and others. Students like Lavanya Janganathan made art like the Statue of Liberty’s face and head from CD roms.
Talent could be seen in every display. Probably one of the most amazing articles featured the reproduction of a photograph in needlepoint titled “Stitches of Friendship.”
The Runnymede served well as the cultural center of Alva for which it was designed.
