Meredith Mims McTigue

At the heart of Clemson University’s arts and cultural life is the Lee Gallery, a space more than just a venue for visual exhibitions. It’s a dynamic, evolving and deeply collaborative environment where students don’t just observe art; they create, curate, install and present it. The gallery is a hub for experiential learning, contributing to Clemson’s No. 1 Student Experience.

“The Lee Gallery is like a hidden engine for cultural and creative development on campus,” said Maya McDonald ’25, an MFA candidate and gallery assistant. “You learn more about artwork the more you share it with different community members because the audience brings their life experiences to interpreting the artwork.” McDonald’s insight captures the Gallery’s essence as a place where students grow in their artistic abilities, empathy, communication and confidence.

Gallery Director Denise Woodward-Detrich sees this transformation every day. “I like to stay behind the scenes,” she said. “That way, students take full ownership of their work. I provide experience, resources and opportunities. They embed their vision, and I help them bring it to life.”

And that vision is far-reaching. From large-scale exhibitions and archival curation to public speaking engagements and collaborative outreach, the Lee Gallery fosters professional practices that impact the Clemson campus and the wider community.

Experiential Learning in Action

In one recent project, McDonald collaborated with art consultant Harriett Green and several alumni from Clemson’s School of Architecture on the “Rural Witnesses: Retracing and Reimagining Rural Architecture.” Her role involved extensive photographic research and preparation for the exhibition, giving her firsthand experience in project management, visual communication and collaboration with external partners.

MFA graduate students Jennifer Smith ’25 and McDonald also co-curated the “Conversation” Exhibition, which explored interpersonal relationships through different visual strategies and compositions. The exhibition was so compelling that Woodward-Detrich dedicated a gallery budget to support it. The students led discussions with art appreciation classes, classes taught in the College of Education, high school groups and community members, demonstrating Clemson’s commitment to extending cultural education beyond its walls.

“They generated their talking points and led critical discussions, linking visual elements between the works and ideas for their audiences,” said Woodward-Detrich. “Their project educated others and helped the graduate students develop essential public speaking, research and leadership skills. This type of activity is what engaged learning is about.”

Cultural Impact That Extends Statewide

The Lee Gallery’s influence extends far beyond campus. Take, for instance, the upcoming exhibit curated by Amanda Musick ’18, an MFA alumna and faculty member, featuring photographs from the Clemson Architectural Foundation’s collection. After its debut at Cooper Library, the exhibit will travel across South Carolina, expanding public access to Clemson’s resources and research while providing Musick with valuable curatorial and collection management experience.

Another standout example is Tanya Johnson ’26, a current MFA candidate specializing in photography, who is using the University’s photo collection to develop workshops that teach community members how to express themselves through photography. “Her project is a perfect example of how we transform lives through art,” said Woodward-Detrich. Her educational research impacts mental health, strengthens community relationships and drives economic development through cultural programming.”

Elevating the Clemson Experience

The Gallery also supports foundational experiences for undergraduates. MFA alumna and faculty Mandy Ferguson’s ’18 beginning printmaking class produces a campus-themed print portfolio that celebrates places and experiences across Clemson’s campus where students find the most joy. Funded by the Lee Gallery, this initiative ends in a print exchange with each student donating one framed piece to be exhibited across Clemson’s venues, including the Lee Gallery, R.M. Cooper Library and possibly places like the new Center for Career and Professional Development in the Nieri Family Alumni and Visitor Center.

McDonald, now also a painting instructor, will showcase her students’ abstraction projects during the May graduation event. “They’re not just learning how to paint; they’re learning how to prepare their work for a gallery showcase and write about their ideas for the public, present and install their work — all essential skills in professional arts practice,” she noted.

A Living Lab for Future Arts Leaders

With support from faculty such as Andrea Feeser, the Gallery and art faculty are developing career resources for B.A. and BFA students by connecting them with alumni and mapping out career pathways. “This kind of strategic collaboration sets students up for success post-graduation,” said Woodward-Detrich. “It’s about transforming lives on campus and providing a pathway for our graduates in the broader artworld context.”

Additionally, Lee Gallery’s partnerships with the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts and local institutions like the Hampton III Gallery in Greenville, S.C., further integrate Clemson students with South Carolina’s vibrant arts scene. Current collaborations include MFA Alumnus Winston Wingo ’81 retrospective and a dual-site exhibition featuring a prominent Greenville artist, Gerry Wubben, which will include community engagement events planned for fall 2025.

A Non-Traditional Classroom with Lasting Impact

From Cooper Library to the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Strode Tower to the Nieri Center, the Lee Gallery’s reach is visible, but its impact often happens behind the scenes. Students learn to manage budgets, write contracts, frame and handle art and engage with the public. They leave the program with a degree and real-world experience that elevates their confidence, capability and skills to advance careers.

“One of the things I love most about my job,” said Woodward-Detrich, “is that I get to work on so many projects that reach into the University and the community. Every day is different and contributes to the Clemson Experience in meaningful and tangible ways.”

In this way, the Lee Gallery is not simply a physical space; it’s a model of engaged learning and cultural stewardship. By prioritizing student empowerment, creative exploration and professional preparation, it delivers on Clemson’s promise to transform lives, drive economic development and impact South Carolina and beyond.

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The Lee Gallery at Clemson University

The Lee Gallery at Clemson University offers the campus and surrounding community access to regional, national and international artists through curated exhibitions, MFA thesis and BFA senior shows, artist talks and public events. The gallery highlights creators and researchers from diverse backgrounds and disciplines. Its exhibitions explore themes that intersect with research in the Department of Art, across the University and within the broader visual arts community.

Art has been central to Clemson University since its founding, rooted in Thomas Green Clemson’s vision of a “high seminary of learning.” As a painter, collector and arts advocate, he recognized the value of the arts to society. Today, Clemson continues this legacy by integrating art across campus spaces.

Visitors are encouraged to engage with exhibitions, public art and special events. All exhibitions, artist talks and receptions are free and open to the public thanks to the generous support of donors.

For event details and to learn more, visit clemson.edu/art. To support the Lee Gallery, visit Lee Gallery Giving.

CLEMSON – The Clemson Visual Arts at Clemson University is set to celebrate artistic excellence with a series of fall showcases featuring a diverse array of compelling student exhibitions. The public is invited to witness the exceptional work of rising art undergraduates showcased in various exhibits, including the highly anticipated Annual Ceramic Bowl Sale. Notable highlights encompass the unveiling of Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) senior works and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) thesis exhibits, symbolizing the culmination of extensive research endeavors.

Art Sale

Annual Ceramic Studio Bowl Sale

Date & Time: Wednesday, Nov. 15, Noon-5 p.m.
Location: Lee Gallery Hallway
Art enthusiasts can purchase bowls from Clemson Ceramics Association student members, with a vast selection of functional works offered at various price points. Proceeds will support student scholarships and travel to the National Council on Education for the Ceramics Arts Conference. Light refreshments will be provided with each purchase.

Exhibitions

Undergraduate Drawings of the Upstate Juried Art Exhibition

Date & Time: Nov. 6 – Dec. 14, M–F, 1–5 p.m.
Reception: Friday, Nov. 10, 5:30–6:45 p.m.
Location: Brooks Center for the Performing Arts – Lobby Area
The exhibition showcases the foundational role of drawing in artistic development, recognizing the vulnerable yet limitless nature of this medium. It fosters camaraderie within the regional artistic community and allows undergraduates to professionally showcase their work.

The BFA Senior Art Exhibit

Date & Time: Nov. 13–30, M–F, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Artist Talk & Reception: Thursday, Nov. 16, 5:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
Location: Acorn Gallery
The Lee Gallery hosts the “Bachelor of Fine Arts Senior Exhibit,” featuring the final creative research of graduating students. This fall, the exhibit spotlights Sydnay Greene’s senior drawing.

The MFA Thesis Art Exhibit

Date & Time: Nov. 13–30, M–F, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Artist Talks & Reception: Friday, Nov. 17, 5–7 p.m.
Location: Lee Gallery
“Underlying Patterns” is a two-person MFA Thesis Exhibit by Emily Collins and Nicole Weldy, exploring hierarchical relationships and the tangible experience of the unseen. The exhibition provides a space for healing and growth.

Ink Travels: MFA Alumni Selections Art Exhibition

Date & Time: On display-Apr. 12
Location: Cooper Library, Fourth Floor
This print exchange between Clemson alumni honors Sydney A. Cross and celebrates the wide-reaching influence of Syd as a teacher and mentor. The exhibition features selected works from MFA alumni.

Alumni Works Art Exhibition

Date & Time: On display-Apr. 18
Location: CAH Dean’s Gallery in Strode Tower
“Alumni Works” showcases MFA and BFA works created by artists during their enrollment at Clemson University, featuring photography, drawing, printmaking, and painting.

Harvey Gantt Curriculum Vitae Art Exhibition

Date & Time: On display – Nov. 17
Location: Sikes Hall Showcase, Ground Floor
This exhibition, based on research conducted through an independent study, showcases the curriculum vitae of Harvey Gantt. It includes photographs taken by Cecile Williams and a graphic created by Gregg Ussery.

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Clemson Visual Arts at Clemson University

Clemson University, honoring Thomas Green Clemson’s vision, incorporates art throughout its facilities. Visitors are encouraged to engage with Clemson Visual Arts by exploring gallery spaces, public art, and attending special events. Exhibitions and events are made possible through generous support to the Center for Visual Arts.

For more information and the full event calendar, visit clemson.edu/art.

Exhibitions, artist talks, and receptions are free to the public, thanks to the generous support given to the Center for Visual Arts. To support Clemson Visual Arts, visit clemson.edu/caac/academics/art/about-us/giving.html.

 

March 1 – 11, 2021

Lee Gallery, Clemson University

Virtual Artist Presentations – Monday, March 8, 5:30 p.m. Contact visualarts@clemson.edu to reserve your spot for this virtual presentation.

The Rudolph E. Lee Gallery at Clemson University, Clemson, SC presents The Self Outside, an MFA Thesis Exhibition showcasing drawings by Lori Brook Johnson and sculptures by Ashley Felder. The exhibit runs from March 1 through March 11. When shown together, these two artists’ work presents an existential lens through which the space within and without the self may be observed.

Lori Brook Johnson, was born in West Virginia and received her Bachelor’s of Arts from the University of North Carolina, Asheville. Her drawings place together moving parts of the past through layers of watercolor, graphite, charcoal, and pastel mediums. Often beginning with an archaeological type dig through digital collections, the references for Johnson’s work – anything from a painting to a novel or a stranger’s home movie from the 1960s – emerge the figures desire to share their stories. She spends time with the individuals in the archives she finds, pausing to ponder and look with a desire to resurrect, celebrate, and introduce audiences to the experiences of people who we otherwise would never meet.

Johnson’s drawings ask you to spend time with the figures. Coming from a research-oriented artist’s perspective, these drawings ponder our commitments to the past and stories that make us human. In one of her larger drawings, The Breaker Boys, the viewer must pause and spend a moment looking at the many faces of the young coal-mining workers who match your gaze. She pays close attention to fabric and clothing, as well as subtle tone changes in the faces of her figures. The artist states, “the goal for the drawings is to question in all the lives that had to be lived if the drawings can resurrect a touch and continue one that may never have existed.”

Sculptor Ashley Felder received her BFA from Winthrop University. Her work is an immediate response to the beauty of nature, the draw to be immersed in it, and her desire to understand something about it.

Felder invites the viewer to join her in meditating on the effects of time and the subtle metamorphosis of our landscape and natural environment. She investigates identity by utilizing the traditionally feminine craft of quilting, stitching, and crocheting using fibers treated with alternative photography methods. Felder states that she “searches for the self with subtle imagery through a use of natural dyes made from harvested materials, stitching together leaves and other natural materials, using photography to capture ephemeral earthworks.”

Both Johnson and Felder are process oriented artists with a desire to better understand their place within our cyclical surroundings. The artists both depict interest in elevating quiet moments with individuals and nature to capture traditionally ephemeral moments. We invite the viewers to join in stepping in to ponder these transitory experiences. By Kat Eaves, BFA Printmaking Senior.

Lee Gallery remains committed to providing quality exhibitions while addressing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following Clemson University guidelines, the Lee Gallery is currently closed to the general public. However, the Gallery is open for visits by students, faculty, and staff of Clemson University. Images from the exhibition can be viewed by accessing the Clemson Visual Arts Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Article by BFA student, Kat Eaves ’21

About the Art Galleries at Clemson University

Campus galleries and showcase spaces include Lee Gallery in Lee Hall, the Acorn Gallery in Lee Hall II, College of Architecture Arts and Humanities Dean’s Gallery in Strode Tower, the lobby showcase at Brooks Center for Performing Arts, and in Sikes Hall on the ground floor.

The Rudolph E. Lee Gallery showcases regional, national, and international artists exploring a broad range of ideas, materials, and creative processes. In partnership with academic programs and university initiatives, the Lee Gallery develops exhibitions that examine contemporary issues and prompt discourse.

 

It’s October already, and so far, so good, it seems. As I walk around campus, my sense is that students have for the most part respected the safety guidelines. They are even wearing masks when walking alone. I also sense that many are choosing to stay home and study online rather than go in person to class, even though they are living right here in Clemson. It is not the outcome we were expecting as we pondered how best to manage the Fall semester, but it is interesting to consider what this means, both for now and for the long term.

The last two weeks have been very intense as I began my “get acquainted” tour of the College. The concept is to spend a week with each department in turn, starting alphabetically with the School of Architecture. During the visit weeks, I meet with leadership, faculty groups, staff, graduate and undergraduate students, and drop in on two to three classes. To the extent possible, I also tour the physical spaces and facilities as well.

My week with Architecture was an eye-opening and quite overwhelming experience. It is breathtaking to take in the wealth and diversity of the activities, and to understand the number and range of interdisciplinary and cooperative projects, both with units across campus as well as the community and the entire region. One week was surely not enough.

I visited three classes: a design course taught by Joseph Choma, a landscape architecture class taught by Lara Browning, and a graduate studio team-taught by Ulrike Heine, David Franco, George Schafer and Dan Harding. I really can’t go into the thrill of each of these classes, save to say that they were all 100% online. My sense was that each of them was completely successful in the online format and that, for instance in Dr. Choma’s design class, it allowed students to have a close-up view of the designs and the ability to critique with pinpoint accuracy in ways that would have been more cumbersome in person.

My week with the Department of Art was equally intense. I toured the facilities at the Lee complex and in Freeman Hall, and got to understand exactly the challenges faculty and students of Art face, given the restrictions of access. I also finally had my first visit to the Lee Gallery. Denise Woodward-Detrich showed me around the current exhibition, recent MFA graduate Jordan Fowler’s “New Ruins.” Since access is limited to Clemson University students and staff at this point, I am attaching a link to Jordan’s short video about his work.

Art is meant to be experienced. When there is no audience, it is like starving art of oxygen. There is also no way around the three-dimensional physicality of art in its various formats. So art is in crisis right now, and we cannot get through this moment soon enough.

I again was able to visit three classes, a contemporary art history class taught by Andrea Feeser, a digital art class taught by David Donar, and a studio taught by Valerie Zimany. Again, what I saw was exceptionally effective ways of teaching in the online format. These were rich and meaningful learning experiences, no question about it.

There is really nothing more to say, except: “Go Tigers!”

Nicholas Vazsonyi, Dean
College of Architecture, Arts and Humanities

We’d like to congratulate our 14 BFA seniors for successfully completing the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Visual Arts. Their artwork will be on display in Fall 2020 season at the Lee Gallery. Exhibition dates, artist talks and receptions for the Gallery will be announced when the University reopens. Please stay tuned for future announcements regarding this exhibit.

2020 SPRING BFA EXHIBIT CATALOG

A full description of the BFA senior artwork and student biographies can be viewed by clicking on the catalog image above.

Artwork can be viewed below. Right click to make the image larger or access the flickr album where you can view all artwork images and increase the size of them.