by Caitlin Brown (RU-2026), Reinhardt Communications Work-Study Student
Reinhardt University professors find ways to engage and challenge students in new and unique ways. Within the William W. Jr. & Eunice L. Fincher Visual Arts Center, students recently undertook a project inspired by the elaborate masks professionally made by Associate Professor of Art Jym Davis. Under Davis’ instruction, massive watercolor paintings of masks came to life.
“Watercolor tends to be a medium where people paint really small or do delicate paintings, and I like to challenge them to work on a large scale,” Davis explains. For this project, he discussed the significance of masks in cultures and traditions. Some students took inspiration from older cultures while others tried something from pop culture. “All my projects are about lighting a spark with students and getting them inspired to find a passion for art, even if they’re not art majors,” Davis said. “I think everyone can succeed in art and create something interesting.” Students in the class come from a variety of majors, including digital marketing, accounting, and digital art, and they all enjoy the class experiences.
Celestin Chung (RU-Dec 2024) created her mask entirely from scratch, but she spoke on how tracing an image can also improve an artist’s skills. She further noted how these creative opportunities and experiences allow her to grow as an artist.
“Most projects are specific on what you need to paint.” Caroline Goddard (RU-2025) notes. “We express ourselves creatively within the guidelines of the painting being a mask.” She appreciates how Davis provides assistance and guidance in a way that helps her excel. While the class pushes students’ boundaries, the environment also creates a relaxing and fun atmosphere.
