Spring 2024 Series Lineup
The Creative Professionals Lecture Series invites a broad range of interdisciplinary practitioners including artists, designers, curators, educators and historians to engage with the campus and local communities. The Watkins College of Art is committed to inviting diverse and innovative voices that propel the transformative power of art and design forward. In addition to public lectures, students benefit from personal engagement with speakers through class visits and studio critiques.
This lecture series is FREE and open to the public. All lectures begin at 5:00 PM in the Leu Center for the Visual Arts Room 120, unless otherwise noted.
January 29 | The Creative Nonprofit
Join us for an exclusive insider's perspective as these visionary leaders share insights on navigating the dynamic world of their respective non-profit organizations. During this session, we will hear from Daybreak Arts Founder and Executive Director Nicole Brandt Minyard, FLC Chief Executive Officer Waverly Ann Harris, and HAPI Executive Director Lynece Benton-Stewart. Discover the passion, dedication, and strategic thinking required to drive positive change and make a lasting impact.
This event is moderated by Watkins College of Art Director of Community Education Jackie Tingle.
February 05 | Making the Most of It – a creative solution to adversity
Adversity is guaranteed. Finding creative solutions to the problems that we face is essential. In this session, local artist Omari Booker reflects on how creating consistently may allow us to work our way into those solutions. Additionally, Omari is exhibiting recent work in Fifteen, on display in Gallery 121 from December 18 through February 16.
This event is moderated by Tennessee State University Associate Professor of Sculpture Samuel Dunson.
March 18 | Journey Over Destination
This event is held in the Jack C. Massey Center – 1890 Theater.
Join Illustrator Chris Sickels of Red Nose Studio for a candid exploration of his career. During this session, he will reveal missteps and failed attempts, each contributing to his extensive artistic journey. It's a story of resilience, growth, and the emergence of a visual voice that lay dormant, waiting to be uncovered.
This event is moderated by Watkins College of Art Associate Professor of Illustration Dan Brawner.
April 08 | The Creative Entrepreneur – Alumni Edition!
Just do it... Yourself! Alumni Holly Carden (2016 – Graphic Design, concentration in Illustration) and Jessie Tyree Jenness (2012 – Design Communications) will share on their career journeys, speaking to what led them down the creative entrepreneurial pathway and what it takes to operate as a commercial illustrator and product-based business owner.
This event is moderated by Belmont University Assistant Director for Career & Professional Development Rachel Walden.
The Creative Professionals Lecture Series is presented by the Watkins College of Art at Belmont University and made possible through grant funding provided by the Tennessee Arts Commission.
