The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) Art and Design program organized its yearly Senior Show display recently, presenting the final projects of Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) graduates Emma Barnum and Noah Schumann.
Emma Barnum, from Gulfport, Miss., introduced The Dinner Table, a piece that examines the complexity and charm of familial relationships. Featuring a meticulously arranged dining set composed of custom-made functional and artistic ceramic items, Barnum envisioned an imagined meal her family has yet to experience together.
“My creations are largely driven by feelings,” Barnum remarked. “I hope observers noticed the effort poured into each object and sensed the affection and support my family has provided me through this endeavor.” Moving forward, Barnum aims to broaden her collection of crafted dishware and further develop floral ceramic designs with a focus on their natural quality.
Noah Schumann, a resident of Laurel, Miss., presented Synthesis, a notable array of drawings and paintings influenced by Giorgio Morandi and Amédée Ozenfant. His series reinvents traditional still-life arrangements through a fresh perspective, prioritizing structure and hue.
“Still life has consistently been a central focus throughout my experience at USM, and this exhibition is the peak of that exploration,” Schumann explained. “I view this body of work as the foundation for tackling artistic inquiries in the future. I hope viewers engaged with these artworks as creations in their own right, rather than as simple reflections of tangible objects.”
Barnum’s project was overseen by ceramics instructor Allen Chen, while Schumann received guidance from drawing and painting instructor Janet Gorzegno. Both educators praised their students’ dedication and highlighted the significance of the Senior Show.
“The curriculum is structured to imitate the intensity of graduate-level studies, equipping Southern Miss students for roles as professional studio artists, educators, and advanced students,” Chen stated. “Emma’s showcase epitomizes her creative development within the BFA curriculum, illustrating the expertise and persistence necessary for a flourishing artistic career.”
Reflecting on Schumann’s series, Gorzegno commented: “Noah’s dedication this term inspires pride and lays the groundwork for his aspirations, which include teaching and continuing as a self-directed creator.”
Visitors to the exhibition were captivated by the artistry presented. Carrie Miller, a Marine Science doctoral scholar and instructor at USM, described the experience as deeply fulfilling.
“It’s fantastic to witness art and active creators enlivening the campus,” Miller noted.
This semester’s Senior Show underscored the talent, effort, and intellectual engagement of USM’s rising artists, granting them the liberty to innovate while benefiting from expert mentorship. Barnum’s emotionally resonant ceramic display and Schumann’s modern still-life pieces focused on design stand as evidence of their progress under the tutelage of professors Chen and Gorzegno.