Category: Uncategorized

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.

Meredith Mims McTigue

Answering an invitation to illustrate a children’s book pushed Hannah Mathis ’22, a B.A. Art alumna, out of her comfort zone. Her venture into creating original artwork for a storybook began when an email about an opportunity to work with local author Susan Coryell was sent to all Clemson art students.

Art Chair Valerie Zimany sent the proposal out and shared her thoughts on the request.

“We frequently receive external inquiries about working with our students on projects. They can be highly valuable as a learning opportunity to develop professional expectations and relationships in freelance, client-based work – for both our students and the community. Susan Coryell’s inquiry caught my attention as she included a detailed proposal and wrote ‘I taught secondary school English for thirty years and know the depth of student talents and that they can be enthusiastic about participating in creative projects.’ Susan was sincere in her thinking about the book as a collaboration, and how involvement could be beneficial to an interested student.”

Although her primary focus is on graphic design and coding, the chance to illustrate “Kiki’s Dream” intrigued Mathis. After meeting Coryell and learning about the heartfelt story behind the book, Mathis felt inspired to bring it to life through her illustrations.

Mathis recalls spending her childhood free time sculpting and drawing, always finding beauty in nature and the art around her. This early interest blossomed into a deeper love for graphic design and illustration during her college years at Clemson University. She aimed to merge her aesthetic sensibilities with functional design.

Reflecting on her experience at Clemson, Mathis said, “As I got to college, my passion extended to graphics and illustration, and I wanted to be able to create art that was both creative and practical.”

This interview with Hannah Mathis has been edited for length and clarity.

ClemsonNews: How did you become involved in illustrating this children’s book?

Mathis: For “Kiki’s Dream,” I received an email sent to all Clemson art students about an opportunity to illustrate for local author Susan Coryell. I hadn’t considered children’s illustration beforehand as my passion lies in graphic design and coding. However, I needed to take advantage of an opportunity to extend my skills and work with someone who shared a passion for creating. After responding and meeting with Susan, the story behind her book inspired me, and I wanted to help her make it a reality.

CN: Where do you draw inspiration for design catered towards children?

Mathis: Catering to children was a fun way to unlock my inner childhood memories and feelings. To illustrate this book, I looked back at previous children’s books I enjoyed as a kid, as well as toys and shows, and took inspiration from the bright colors, sketch-like style, and an overall sense of fun. I also added small details that kids could focus on to have plenty to observe and learn about.

CN: How do you hope your illustrations impact the children who read the book?

Mathis: I hope my illustrations inspire kids to follow their dreams and look forward to things in life they haven’t experienced before. They encourage creativity and exploration and even create artwork and drawings.

CN: Tell us about your current artwork.

Mathis: I’m open to more illustration projects in the future, whether they be children’s books, book covers, or even more in the scientific illustration realm. I focus on branding and app design, but any artistic style can inspire other works. As my connections and relationships grow with different people and artists, my skills will prosper alongside them.

According to Zimany, “All was quiet after the initial message I sent out to our majors. I was surprised and delighted to hear two years later that Susan’s book was published, and, according to Susan, many of the positive reviews mentioned Hannah’s colorful illustrations. Congratulations to both Susan and Hannah – a serendipitous connection led to a unique and successful professional opportunity.”

“Kiki’s Dream” is available in Clemson and the surrounding area at several locations: the Bee’s Knees, the Little Curiosities Shoppe, the Pendleton Book Shop, Clemson Variety and Frame, and First Chapter Bookstore. It is also available through all online bookstores. The publisher, formerly known as Two Sisters Press and now Golden Bridges Press, donates a portion of their proceeds to Maui wildfire relief.

Clemson University’s Department of Art is expanding with the addition of the graphic design studio in response to the growing demand for interdisciplinary skills in digital media. Beginning in Fall 2024, students in the BFA Visual Art program can choose graphic design as their studio area. 

Drew Sisk, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design, will lead the studio. 

Sisk is a versatile designer and artist. With an MFA from Virginia Commonwealth University, Sisk’s career spans academia and professional practice, including roles at Duke University Press and EM2 in Atlanta. His client portfolio, focused on nonprofits and cultural institutions, boasts collaborations with organizations like Georgia Aquarium and UNC-Chapel Hill. Recognized by the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) and others, his work blurs art and design boundaries, exploring media, politics and technology. Sisk’s self-published works are housed in prestigious collections of artists’ books at Yale University and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), among others. As co-founder of Utilities Included, a small exhibition space and publishing initiative in Chapel Hill, NC, he champions creativity beyond academia.

He noted that the graphic design curriculum will prepare students for professional practice in creative industries, including visual identity design and branding, user interface and user experience design and advertising, along with work in the broader fields of art, media and design. 

“Students learn industry-standard tools for creative work while remaining nimble to constantly changing technology,” Sisk said. “An expanded, inclusive understanding of design history and contemporary practice helps students situate their work within an informed and global context.”

Establishing the graphic design studio marks a significant milestone for the department, aligning with recommendations outlined in the 2015 National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) Visitors Report, which serves as the accrediting body for all colleges and universities. Drawing on the interconnected nature of graphic design, this emphasis integrates emerging technologies and innovative artistic strategies with traditional forms, materials and methods. 

The roots of graphic design at Clemson run deep, with the legacy dating back to the appointment of the first Art Department Chair in the 1960s, a graphic designer. Building upon this strong foundation, Sisk has spearheaded the development of the curriculum for the graphic design area, paving the way for a new generation of creative thinkers and visual communicators. His commitment to graphic design was featured on campus by collaborating with the Clemson University libraries to create the inaugural “Clemson Art Book Fair and Zine Fest” to showcase student work. This event, which took place this past Spring semester, included a mix of zines, artists’ books, posters, and other printed matter.

Art Department Chair and Professor Valerie Zimany, championed bringing the graphic design studio to fruition under the direction of interim dean of Clemson’s College of Architecture, Art and Construction George Petersen. 

“The BFA Visual Art Graphic Design curriculum fosters effective visual communication within a dynamic global context,” Zimany said. “Emphasizing concept development, human-centered design, and visual techniques prepares students for impactful work. Aligned with ClemsonElevate, it prioritizes top student experiences and equips them to navigate evolving professional landscapes.”

For more information about the graphic design studio area, contact Art Department Chair and Professor Valerie Zimany at vzimany@clemson.edu or Assistant Professor of Art, Graphic Design, Drew Sisk casisk@clemson.edu. 

The 20th anniversary of Artisphere, the Upstate’s premier celebration of art and artists, will once again be tinted orange as artists, professors, staff members, alums and volunteers from Clemson University play a big part in the popular public event Friday-Sunday, May 10-12. The festival, founded in 2003 to “enhance the quality of life and economic vitality in South Carolina,” has become one of the nation’s most sought-out fine arts festivals, attracting more than 70,000 people to downtown Greenville annually.

The overall theme of Clemson’s interactive exhibit this year is “It’s a Clemson World.” It will feature activities like an interactive touch-screen storyboard, podcasting booth and “selfie” station where visitors can snap a photo that makes them look like they’re on the cover of Clemson World magazine.

“Clemson has had a long-running presence at Artisphere, and we see a lot of value in continuing to bring our best and most creative people and programs to Greenville and this world-class festival,” said David Dryden, associate vice president for brand experience. “This year, we are using Clemson’s flagship magazine, Clemson World, as a way to allow Artisphere visitors to engage and interact with a lot of very cool and innovative things happening at the University.”

Clemson executive creative director Jesse Godfrey said anchoring activities to the University’s award-winning alumni magazine will energize the Clemson experience at Artisphere this year.

“There are so many incredible stories of artistry and innovation at Clemson University, and we’re excited to bring a few of them to Main Street Greenville for Artisphere ’24,” said Godfrey. “By incorporating our flagship storytelling platform, Clemson World magazine, we hope to bring some of these stories to life and engage with festivalgoers from Greenville and beyond to give them a glimpse of what makes Clemson such a special place!”

Clemson will be well-represented outside its exhibit as well. David Gerhard, another MFA alumnus and art faculty member, has been selected as the juror for the “Artists of the Upstate Juried Exhibition.” Several artists affiliated with Clemson have been chosen for this showcase, including:

• MFA student in Ceramics, Ethan McKeller ‘25
• MFA alumna Jessica Swank ‘21
• MFA alumna Jo Carol Mitchell Rogers ‘87
• MFA alumnus and art faculty, Jonathan Bolton ‘23

MFA alumna Glory Day Loflin ’23, whose painting “Grid-Lock: Victory Vase & ‘X’ Marks the Spot” was chosen to be the Artisphere 2022 commemorative poster, has once again been selected from thousands of entries to be a part of Artists Row.

Also on Artists Row, this year’s Artisphere organizers have awarded MFA alumnus David Tillinghast ‘94 the title of Emerging Artist. He is well known at the University as the artist behind the public art piece P211.t45, which is made up of two components, one of which enjoys being one of Clemson students’ top 10 traditions, finding and signing “The Secret Book.”

As always, every festivalgoer will walk through the shadow of the permanent public artwork “Ten Artispheres” created by Clemson’s former Art Department chair, John Acorn, which towers over Main Street at the entrance to Falls Park. Acorn created the huge sculpture of ten thick aluminum intersecting spheres to commemorate Artisphere’s 10th anniversary in 2014.

The Clemson Visual Arts (CVA) at Clemson University is gearing up to honor artistic excellence through a series of student showcases this spring. The exhibitions invite the public to witness the remarkable work of emerging art undergraduates, culminating in the highly anticipated Spring Studio Ceramic Sale. Among the highlights is the unveiling of ten Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) senior works, representing extensive research efforts.

The BFA senior exhibits represent the completion of year-long research endeavors. Visual Arts students undergo a series of critiques aimed at nurturing the development of a body of work of their choosing. The public is invited to participate in this dialogue by attending the artist talks, followed by receptions with the artists. Join the CVA this spring to see the next generation of artists.

Art Sale

Spring Ceramic Studio Sale

Date & Time: Wednesday, Apr. 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Location: Lee Gallery Hallway

Art enthusiasts can purchase ceramics from Clemson Ceramics Association student members, with a vast selection of functional works at various prices. Proceeds will support student scholarships and travel to the National Council on Education for the Ceramics Arts Conference. 

Faculty Artist Talk

David Donar’s Sabbatical Talk

Date & Time: Wednesday, Apr. 3, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Location: 1-100 Lee Hall

Award-winning short filmmaker and Professor of Art in Animation at Clemson University, David Donar delves into the vibrant world of Acadian/Cajun/Creole culture in Louisiana, unveiling its music scene and folklore. From classic Cajun tunes to the infectious rhythms of Creole music, he guides audiences through the intricate history and soulful melodies that define this dynamic region. Donar showcases his research in animation and music, transporting viewers to worlds filled with narrative depth and cultural resonance. 

Exhibitions

The BFA Senior Art Exhibit #1 – Configurations of Sentiment

Date & Time: Apr. 3-11, M–F, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Artist Talks & Reception Friday, April 5, 5-7 p.m.

BFA Senior Artist Talks & Reception Exhibit #2 – Evocation

Date & Time: Apr. 17-25, M–F, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Artist Talks & Reception Friday, April 19, 5-7 p.m.

Location: Lee Gallery

The Lee Gallery exhibits artwork of graduating students enrolled in the Department of Art academic program at the end of each semester. Students are required to present their final creative research in a professional exhibition and deliver an oral presentation about their work. All events are free and open to the public.

Ink Travels: MFA Alumni Selections Art Exhibition

Date & Time: On display-Apr. 12, M–Su, library hours

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, M–F, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

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, M–F, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Location: Sikes Hall Showcase, Ground Floor

This exhibition, based on research conducted through an independent study, showcases Harvey Gantt’s curriculum vitae. 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 and 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.

Students and the public are invited to join ceramics enthusiasts for the annual Spring Ceramic Studio Sale on Wednesday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Lee Gallery Hallway. The sale, hosted by the Clemson Ceramics Association student organization within the Department of Art at Clemson University, offers a wide selection of functional ceramic work by talented students and faculty at various price points. 

All proceeds from the sale will go towards supporting student scholarships and annual travel to the National Council on Education for the Ceramics Arts (NCECA) Conference.

While many college students headed to the beach for spring break, a group of ten art students and two faculty members from the Clemson University ceramics studio embarked on a different journey. They attended the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) conference for research and to gain networking opportunities. The conference is international in scope and draws over six thousand participants annually, allowing participants to explore the newest trends, techniques, and conversations within ceramic arts.

The 58th Annual NCECA Conference, themed “Coalescence,” took place in Richmond, Virginia, offering a vibrant setting conducive to learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Clemson’s ceramics studio has participated at the NCECA conference for over four decades, underscoring the University’s ongoing commitment to fostering excellence in ceramic education and scholarship.

President of the Clemson Ceramics Association (CCA) Hailey Blackwelder, shared her thoughts on the conference.

“I was captivated by the dynamic energy and sense of community at NCECA,” Blackwelder expressed. “Connecting with fellow ceramic enthusiasts from around the globe provided invaluable insights and fresh perspectives for my ceramic practice. The workshops and presentations offered profound insights I’m eager to incorporate into my work. The experience was incredibly enriching as a student, reinforcing my passion for ceramics.”

Students and faculty host a Clemson table each year to provide information on ceramics undergraduate and the MFA Visual Arts program.

Following the NCECA conference, Clemson University ceramic students returned with renewed inspiration and valuable connections to enhance their artistic endeavors. Their experiences have translated into fresh works to be found in the Spring Ceramic Studio Sale, taking place on Wednesday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Lee Gallery Hallway. The Spring Sale features a wide variety of wearable and functional ceramic creations by students and faculty, featuring pieces at diverse price ranges. The sale continues a long-standing tradition of support from the Clemson and surrounding community to acquire unique pieces while championing student research, scholarships and NCECA Conference travel. 

While perusing the sale on Wednesday, visitors are also encouraged to view the 2024 Spring BFA Senior Exhibition in the Lee Gallery, with works by graduation candidates Susan Sorohan, Layne Cromer, Lizetta Halter-Macinnes, Audrey Hunt, and Molly Rembold.

For further details about this week’s Spring Ceramics Sale or the Fall Ceramic Bowl Sale scheduled for November 13, 2024, contact Art Department Chair and Professor Valerie Zimany at vzimany@clemson.edu or Lecturer of Art in Ceramics John Cummings at jhcummi@clemson.edu.

Students and the public are invited to attend David Donar’s Sabbatical Talk showcasing a cultural fusion depicted through animation and music.  The event, hosted by the Department of Art will be held on April 3 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Lee Hall, Room 1-100.

David Donar, an esteemed filmmaker renowned for his award-winning short stories, wears many hats. Not only is he a Professor of Art in Animation at Clemson University, but he also possesses a deep passion for music, playing instruments such as the accordion, banjo, and guitar. This combination of art, music, and academic philosophy defines his creative endeavors, leading to globally recognized content transcending boundaries.

Last year, Donar embarked on a sabbatical research leave program offered through the University, allowing him to further his professional growth and delve into significant scholarly projects. His research focused on the vibrant Cajun and Creole culture in Louisiana.

Immersing himself in the heart of Louisiana, Donar found inspiration in the myriad styles and sounds that define the region. From classic Cajun tunes to the infectious rhythms of Creole Dance music, every note and melody spoke of a rich cultural heritage.

“The music and culture of Southern Louisiana defy any labels or oversimplification,” Donar noted. “I aim to create a template for further exploration, providing a basic understanding. Visiting this dynamic and vibrant region is a must in one’s lifetime.”

To understand the essence of Louisiana’s music is to delve into its complex history. Cajun music traces its roots to the Acadians, French immigrants who settled in the region in the 1600s. Over time, influences from Caribbean, Latin, and American folk music molded this genre into its unique form. Creole dance music, originating from Africa, infused the musical landscape with intricate layers of rhythm and soul. 

“New Orleans deserves special mention,” Donar emphasizes. “As a port city, it has absorbed influences from around the world, birthing genres like Jazz and maintaining its status as an international arts hub.”

Donar’s exploration of culture extends beyond his research in Louisiana. His recent short film animations have captivated audiences worldwide, with screenings at prestigious festivals such as the Toronto Short Film Festival and the MiCe Film Festival in Spain. His film “Church Street, We Were There” earned him the Best Animation award at Miami’s Cuban American International Film Festival.

This film, part of a larger project funded by the National Endowment of the Arts (NEA) and other organizations, embodies Donar’s commitment to public art and cultural preservation. It’s a testament to his belief that art, in all its forms, serves as a bridge between communities and a celebration of our shared humanity.

David Donar’s animations become vehicles for narrative, cultural immersion, and unity. His creations resonate far beyond conventional confines, seamlessly blending art and heritage, enriching the global cultural landscape. Through his work, Donar gives voice to diverse artistic expressions, forging connections through the world of animation.

After spending two decades raising her family and serving her community, Fleming Markel ’98 embarked on a new chapter by pursuing her passion for visual art. Accepted into Clemson University’s graduate visual art program, Markel defied expectations by earning her Master of Fine Arts degree just before age 50.

“At Clemson, I was presented with challenges and constructive criticism but also with encouragement,” she recalled. “Under the mentorship of an amazing faculty, I completed my MFA just before my fiftieth birthday. I was given my chance.”

Today, as the Director of Galleries at Greenville Technical College (GTC) in Greenville, S.C, Markel pays forward the support she received by guiding aspiring artists, particularly non-traditional visual art undergraduates hungry for opportunity. Even with shifts in the art faculty since her graduation 26 years ago, Markel affirms the program’s continued supportive atmosphere.

“Even though the Clemson art faculty has completely changed, the warmth and encouragement continue,” she affirmed. “I can recommend the Clemson Art Department to GTC transfer students, confident that they too will get their chance.”

Markel’s recent work includes a traveling solo exhibition, “Pent-up Pink,” which challenges entrenched notions of gender identity and cultural stereotypes. Through her art, she interrogates the pervasive influence of consumerism, language, and gender norms on our daily lives. 

Drawing inspiration from everyday life in the South, Markel explores the “defining prescriptions” ingrained in girls and women from birth. 

“I think that many of our culture’s prescriptive myths are perpetuated by marketing, advertising and packaging,” she explained.

Fleming Markel’s thought-provoking artwork serves as a beacon for societal evolution, confronting deeply rooted norms and urging critical introspection. By recontextualizing objects traditionally associated with femininity, Markel challenges stereotypes and invites a dialogue about the narratives they perpetuate. Her impact underscores the truth that the quest for knowledge is a lifelong endeavor.

Markel’s sculpture work is part of the “As Good As Gold: 50 Years of the MFA at Clemson” Part III exhibition and can be viewed in the Lee Gallery until Mar. 8.

About the Clemson MFA Program 

Clemson University’s Master of Fine Arts program celebrates a half-century of art and learning with a three-part exhibition featuring a wide variety of art from its graduates and receptions featuring reflections from notable alumni and supporters of the MFA program. As part of this 50-year-long celebration, Clemson Visual Arts is featuring MFA Alumni this semester leading into the summer months. 

The MFA is considered the terminal degree in the visual arts. Clemson’s program offers studio concentrations in drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, photography and sculpture. Interdisciplinary and collaborative projects are encouraged within the department. The program’s primary goal is to provide students with opportunities to develop a high degree of professional competence in their chosen area of concentration.

Winston Wingo, ’80, an alumnus of Clemson University’s MFA program, has created sculptures that span borders, resonating with audiences across the United States, Canada, France, and Italy with over 40 solo exhibitions and participation in over 200 group competitions and invitational exhibitions.

He traces the roots of his connection with art back to his childhood. 

“My interest and passion for art began as a small child,” Wingo reflected, acknowledging the formative impact of his elementary school years. “The support and encouragement from my teachers planted the seeds of creativity within me.”

However, it was during his junior high school days that Wingo’s fascination with sculpture took root and grew with the guidance of his mentor, Brooks Huggins. 

“Mr. Huggins introduced me to sculpture,” Wingo recalled with fondness. “His bronze sculptures, proudly displayed in our classroom, ignited a fire within me, a passion for sculpting that continues to burn brightly to this day.”

The decision to pursue his MFA at Clemson University was influenced by a pivotal encounter during his junior high years. 

“In 1970, I visited the School of Architecture at Clemson University to meet sculptor and art department chair John Acorn,” Wingo recounts. “His reputation preceded him, and I was captivated by his work showcased in various publications.” 

The vibrant artistic community at Clemson, coupled with the mentorship of John Acorn, solidified Wingo’s decision to embark on a journey of advanced graduate studies in studio fine arts.

Looking back on his accomplishments after graduation, Wingo’s artistic impact has reached across continents.

“Following my time at Clemson, I pursued postgraduate studies at Instituto Statute d’Arte, Italy,” Wingo said. “Subsequent travels and explorations led me to bronze foundries in Tuscany, Italy, where I honed my craft.” 

Wingo’s commitment to fostering creativity as an artist and educator remains unwavering. 

“I’ve had the privilege of teaching art at undergraduate and graduate levels in South Carolina,” Wingo said. “My studio serves as a sanctuary for artistic exploration, where I continue to create and innovate.”

In his Spartanburg studio, Wingo delves into the complexities of contemporary African American social and cultural narratives. 

“My ongoing work reflects the intersections between science, technology, art, and humanity,” Wingo explains. “It’s a commentary on the dynamic forces shaping our world and a testament to the power of art to provoke thought and evoke emotion.”

Winston Wingo’s artistic path, from humble beginnings through Clemson’s MFA Program to international acclaim, continues to demonstrate how his artistry transcends boundaries.

Wingo’s sculpture work is part of the “As Good As Gold: 50 Years of the MFA at Clemson” Part III exhibition and can be viewed in the Lee Gallery until Mar. 8.

About the Clemson MFA Program 

Clemson University’s Master of Fine Arts program celebrates a half-century of art and learning with a three-part exhibition featuring a wide variety of art from its graduates and receptions featuring reflections from notable alumni and supporters of the MFA program. As part of this 50-year-long celebration, Clemson Visual Arts is featuring MFA Alumni this semester leading into the summer months. 

The MFA is considered the terminal degree in the visual arts. Clemson’s program offers studio concentrations in drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, photography and sculpture. Interdisciplinary and collaborative projects are encouraged within the department. The program’s primary goal is to provide students with opportunities to develop a high degree of professional competence in their chosen area of concentration.

Deighton Abrams’ ’16 artistic journey has taken him coast-to-coast, from his upbringing in Alaska to his recent endeavors as an instructor within the renowned ceramics program at Harvard University.

“I come from a very creative family,” he reminisced, “so making and enjoying art in its many forms has been a constant throughout my life.” 

His mother’s gift for crafting and his father’s literary pursuits provided fuel for Abrams’ artistic inclinations. 

“Initially studying to become an illustrator, I found my love of ceramics late in my undergraduate degree, and it completely changed my artistic trajectory,” he recounted.

His decision to pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree led him to Clemson University, a choice shaped by both academic aspirations and personal connections. 

“Following my partner, who was accepted into Clemson’s astrophysics Ph.D. program, I visited the Art Department knowing little about the program, but eager to be challenged,” he explained.

Under the tutelage of mentors like Department Chair and Professor in Ceramics Valerie Zimany, Abrams honed his practice and expanded his artistic horizons. 

“The dedication and mentoring of my advisor broadened my view of the art world and sharpened my research skills,” he reflected.

Post-graduation, Abrams began navigating residencies, teaching engagements, and immersive studio explorations. His tenure at STARworks in Star, N.C., further enriched his studio practice.

“I was lucky to jump into a ceramics residency at STARworks, which furthered the expansion of my studio skills and gave me an even wider view of the state of clay in the art world,” he noted.

He has shown work nationally and internationally, including at the International Ceramic Symposium and Art Education Exchange Program, at a member Exhibition in Yixing, China and at ArtFields in Lake City, S.C., where he won a Merit Award for sculpture. With stints at institutions like Winthrop University in Rock Hill, S.C. and Greenville Technical College in Greenville, teaching became a cornerstone of Abrams’ artistic path. His return to Clemson University, albeit briefly, to lead the General Education Art Appreciation course remains a cherished highlight. 

Abrams currently lives in Boston, continuing to teach ceramics at community centers and universities, including Massachusetts College of Art and Design and Lesley University.

Recently, he completed a two-year residency at the ceramics program at Harvard University. His extensive teaching resume underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation of artistic talent.

Within his studio at Harvard’s ceramics program, Abrams embarks on a new artistic path by creating sculptural narratives. 

“I am exploring a new body of sculptural work,” he said, “combining representational ceramic forms, abstracted landscapes, illustrated porcelain pottery and raw building materials.” 

His latest series of porcelain urns reflects his commitment to environmental issues, blending beauty with meaning.

Abrams’ ceramic work is part of the “As Good As Gold: 50 Years of the MFA at Clemson” Part III exhibition and can be viewed in the Lee Gallery until Mar. 8.

About the Clemson MFA Program 

Clemson University’s Master of Fine Arts program celebrates a half-century of art and learning with a three-part exhibition featuring a wide variety of art from its graduates and receptions featuring reflections from notable alumni and supporters of the MFA program. As part of this 50-year-long celebration, Clemson Visual Arts is featuring MFA Alumni this semester leading into the summer months. 

The MFA is considered the terminal degree in the visual arts. Clemson’s program offers studio concentrations in drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, photography and sculpture. Interdisciplinary and collaborative projects are encouraged within the department. The program’s primary goal is to provide students with opportunities to develop a high degree of professional competence in their chosen area of concentration.