Despite gloomy weather, spirits were high across campus for CIU Gallery, the student-led art market held in the William H. Jones Center. The Exchange and the Fellowship of Christian Professionals (FCP), the student-led art and business clubs, meticulously worked for hours setting up and decorating tables, placing art on the walls, and arranging food and drinks for guests.

Colby Hull, the president of the Fellowship of Christian Professionals said he hopes the event encourages entrepreneurship and makes it easier for students to market what they enjoy doing and grow an audience for their projects.

“There are so many artists on campus and I feel like when you're busy with all your school work and all of your other projects it's hard to work on growing a side hustle,” Hull said. “Artists get to sell their art but also find connections and have a better chance at growing and making money. They get to do what they love and if we can provide that area where they can advertise in this way, I think that's great.”

As the teams wrapped up their final preparations, students, faculty and staff were greeted with music and an extensive array of hours d’oeuvres for the formal event, a celebration of the CIU community showing their support for art.

In the main conference room, students displayed ornate paintings, sketches and creative woodwork.

“From my perspective, being an artist, it was really cool to see all the different talent and appreciate everyone and what they do,” said student Sierra Brownell. “It's just really fun to sell (our work) and show off how God has gifted you in different creative ways.”  

Another student artist, Cilla Burns, appreciated the large turnout of fellow artists and guests.

“I think seeing all the students that I didn't know were artists was really fun and then even seeing the professors too!”

As the evening wound down, student leaders toasted the event with sparkling apple cider. Caroline McDowell, president of the Exchange, reflected on the evening.

“We have such an amazing collection of talent here at CIU … I loved contacting the artist, (and) seeing their work,” McDowell said. “I also loved collaborating with the FCP. They have an amazing team and put forward a lot of hard work on getting together the logistics of the event!”

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