The art gallery hosted the opening reception for the exhibition “Narrative Expression” on Friday.

The exhibition showcased a variety of 3D shapes, sizes and figures portraying different perspectives and expressions. Art Professor Yoshio Taylor, who has been curator of the art gallery for the last four years, showcased the work of local artists Ed Blackburn, Margaret Keelan, Craig Martinez, and Michael Stevens this semester.

“Art is a way to express yourself through what you create and how you feel,” Taylor said. “It’s not everyday that students get to see that.”

Taylor said overtime he realized showcasing in a classroom wasn’t doing artwork any justice, and that’s when the art department and himself decided to push forward with dedicating a gallery just for art.

Some professors and students who attended the reception enjoyed observing and expressing how they felt about the unique arts.

“The kind of knowledge you find in art you won’t find elsewhere,” said Art History Professor Anna T. Trent. “You begin to understand the connection within the world that you didn’t before.”

About thirty minutes into the reception, more students begin to arrive and show support for the art exhibition.

“I enjoy looking at the details of each art piece,” said 21-year-old Liberal Arts Major Arlee Su. “I just love how they all have their own unique twist to it.”  

Jordan Isley, a 27-year-old art design major, said it was his second time attending an art exhibition.

“It’s not only good to see local talent but it’s also good to understand where you are in the art world,” Isley said.

Taylor encourages students to at come by the gallery and see it for themselves because it is “well worth the experience.”

The exhibit in the art gallery is open to students and the community until March 22 from Monday through Thursday between 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.