College of Fine Arts: Celebrations of Scholarship

Greetings and welcome to the Celebrations of Scholarship, an exciting moment where we come together to explore and engage with the diverse and dynamic world of the arts through the lenses of Process, Collaboration and Product. 

As artists, media makers and arts managers, we are continuously pushing boundaries and reshaping the landscape of the creative industries. Through innovative cross-disciplinary initiatives, creative entrepreneurship and technical advancements, we are moving the arts forward in ways that are both transformative and inspiring. The process of creation is more than just an end result; it is the heartbeat of our artistic practices and the foundation for everything that follows. In this celebration, we invite you to witness firsthand how these collaborations and innovations come to life. 

What’s truly exciting about this event is that we are not only showcasing the final products but offering a window into the creative and research processes that drive them. Audiences have the unique opportunity to engage with the application of theory — understanding the analysis, research and critically informed aesthetic judgment that fuel the works we create. This perspective shifts the conversation from simply appreciating a finished piece to truly valuing the journey, the exploration and the intellectual labor behind the art. 

The arts are shaping the vast and evolving landscape of creative industries, and this celebration highlights the central role artists play in influencing cultural narratives, technological advancements and global discourse. As you explore the work of our talented students, faculty and collaborators, we hope you will leave with a deeper appreciation for the intricate, multifaceted processes that bring creative visions to life. 

Indeed, as you engage with the work on display today, you may come to realize that the process itself is as meaningful — if not more so — than the final product. It is through the act of creation and discovery that we, as a community, continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of art and culture. 

Thank you for joining us in this celebration of artistic research and creation. We are honored to share this journey with you and look forward to the discussions, insights and connections that will emerge throughout the day. 

Cameron Jackson 
Dean, College of Fine Arts 

2025 Celebrations of Scholarship Presentations Listed Below

  • Playful Creativity by Eliz Hulick

    SH327

    8-8:30 a.m.

    Presenter(s):

    Eliz Hulick

    Faculty Sponsor(s):

    Eric Hector, Jessa Wilcoxen, Johnny Power

    Abstract/Description:

    A deep dive into how creatives can utilize play and connect with their inner child to constantly reinvigorate their spark and circumvent burnout.

     

    Celebration of Scholarships by Nora Ficke: Go Behind the Scenes of 1901 Production's "The Encounter" written and directed by John Wyatt

    SH327

    8:30-9 a.m.

    Presenter(s):

    Nora Ficke, John Wyatt

    Faculty Sponsor(s):

    Eric Hector, Jessa Wilcoxen, Johnny Power

    Abstract/Description:

    A dive into the production process of 1901 Productions. Includes exclusive interviews with cast and crew, a special look at our equipment and how it's used, how our sets are made and designed, and how costumes are constructed. This video will give the public an overall feel of what it is like onset of a student-run venture film company.

     

    A Motion Comic on the Complexities of What Motivates Us To Do Things for the People We Love. A Multimedia Production Directed, Illustrated, Voiced, and Produced By Corey Cebulski

    SH327

    9-9:30 a.m.

    Presenter(s):

    Corey Cebulski

    Faculty Sponsor(s):

    Eric Hector, Jessa Wilcoxen, Johnny Power

    Abstract/Description:

    This showcases deep dive and breakdown of the hardships we will endure for our loved ones. In physical and digital platforms. This will showcase the process of sketching, writing, inking, and coloring in making this comic. There will also be a breakdown of the process of all the inner workings that go into a production and artistry for motion comics.

     

    The Recording of an EP

    SH327

    9:30-10 a.m.

    Presenter(s):

    Cole Phillips

    Faculty Sponsor(s):

    Eric Hector, Jessa Wilcoxen, Johnny Power

    Abstract/Description:

    The Recording of an EP: A discussion of the process of scheduling, recording, and mixing an EP. How to apply mic techniques in recording as well as people techniques when it comes to working with various artists and personalities. An EP by Cole Edward Phillips: Cole's attempt to hammer down his artist development led to the creation of his first professionally recorded project. This project not displays not only the music portion, but the marketing materials such as an album cover, videos, photos, and more.

      

    Shakespeare Corrected: What's Past is Prologue by Katie Kocan

    SH327

    10-10:30 a.m.

    Presenter(s):

    Katie Kocan

    Faculty Sponsor(s):

    Eric Hector, Jessa Wilcoxen, Johnny Power

    Abstract/Description:

    A short documentary exploring the work and impact of Shakespeare Corrected, a group that promotes restorative justice, inclusion, diversity, and equity by engaging with marginalized populations to create artistic experiences.

     

    New Metaphors and New Narrative- What I Want To Ask Is...

    SH327

    11:30-12:00 a.m.

    Presenter(s):

    Morgan Potter

    Faculty Sponsor(s):

    Dr. Mirela Tanta

    Abstract/Description:

    At the beginning of the 21st century, artists are concerned with how to create new metaphors in a world defined by instability. After the art world has been built and rebuilt through many movements and critiques, how do artists tell a story? What mediums do artists use to create these new narratives that would be meaningful in a changing contemporary world?

  • The Pedagogy of Auxiliary Clarinets

    SH327

    10:30-11 a.m.

    Presenter(s):

    Julia Funck

    Faculty Sponsor(s):

    Dr. David Cook

    Abstract/Description:

    In a growing industry consisting of more qualified musicians than jobs, professional clarinetists have to be more versatile. Therefore, instructors need to be well versed in teaching students auxiliary clarinets,including the E-flat clarinet and bass clarinet. The consensus amongst clarinetists from various areas and timeframes is that auxiliary clarinets are taught with the same fundamentals as the standard soprano clarinet and differ in the embouchure formation for each instrument. I will explore the historical purpose of auxiliary clarinets, methods for teaching auxiliary instruments in relation to the soprano clarinet, identify common learning issues and their solutions, and discuss repertoire.

  • "Tell Me What's Wrong With Me": An Examination of Disordered Eating in Performers

    SH327

    11-11:30 a.m.

    Presenter(s):

    Lily Bryson

    Faculty Sponsor(s):

    Jana Henry Funderburk

    Abstract/Description:

    My research explores the prevalence of disordered eating patterns among performers in the entertainment industry, analyzing the history of disordered eating, its encouragement by Western societal norms, and how those patterns differ based on gender. I further assess the rigid standards for the bodies of performers in the modern entertainment industry and how those norms have both shifted and endured within the modern genre of musical theatre. This research illuminates the unspoken expectation of thinness within the performance industry and makes the case for a fundamental shift in the way the theatre industry views performer’s bodies.