On their way to their permanent homes at Temple, the eclectic works of the Provost’s Art Collection, which range from sculpture to jewelry-making to fine arts, were displayed at the Paley Library from Oct. 1st to  2nd.  Each of the pieces was personally chosen for the collection by Provost Lisa Staiano-Coico, including the bracelet made by Joshua DeMonte (Tyler, MFA ’08) shown at right.

“The art of these students shows Temple at its best, a place where young artists can find opportunities for success and an arts destination for the greater community,” said Staiano-Coico at a reception honoring the student work as well as Temple arts faculty.

“It’s an honor to have people coming to see my work and to have my painting affiliated with Temple,” said Chris D’Antonio (Tyler, BFA ’08), another one of the students showcased in the show. His oil and acrylic triptych will remain on permanent display at the library. 

For many of these young student artists, being in the show generated the first paycheck they have ever received for their work.

“This is the time to get artwork — when the talent of students is blossoming,” said Temple art consultant Jeanne Pond. “How terrific it is to take advantage of this unique time, showcase Tyler students and celebrate the move of the art school to main campus.”

The collection was organized by Stephanie Knopp, chair and professor of graphic arts and design and a member of the Provost’s Art Commission, which generated the idea as part of its efforts to create increased awareness of Temple as an arts destination. The commission also aims to extend the reach of the arts on campus.

“Under Provost Lisa’s encouragement, the whole concept of the arts at Temple has broadened and the membership of the commission this year reflects that interdisciplinary focus,” said the group’s chair Roberta Sloan, who is also a theater professor and this year’s faculty arts fellow.

 Showing its breadth, the Provost’s Art Commission now includes environmental design, architecture and creative writing as well as art, music, dance, theater, film and television, and its advisory board includes representatives from both the honors program and computer information sciences.

“We look forward to expanding the collection to other areas in the arts, and to growing it every year,” said Sloan.