Dozens of local art enthusiasts helped kick off the 54th annual National Drawing and Small Sculpture Show on Feb. 21.
Local philanthropist Pat Susser, who attended the opening reception in the Joseph A. Cain Memorial Art Gallery, studied contemporary art while in college and said she does not have to own art to enjoy it, but merely be in its presence.
According to Susser, when she walks into a museum her breath is taken away.
“Half a day is always spent for me going to a museum or galleries,” Susser said of when she travels with her husband or friends.
Susser said she thinks the exhibition is one of the best art-related elements in Corpus Christi.
“I am very excited that Del Mar is bringing in artist from all over the country to compete for this show,” Susser said.
Kenneth Rosier, chair of Department of Art and Drama, said organizing the show presents several challenges, including finding a juror who is well-respected and setting the right atmosphere, as well as marketing and advertising the show while on a budget.
For the past two years, Rosier has used an online service to attract entries from varies states. The service also doubles as a promoter for the exhibition.
“This has increased the numbers of entries we receive each year,” Rosier said.
This year’s show features entries from 41 states, Rosier said.
Allison Calloway, a writer, director and editor, said she is happy that her grandfather’s work on the exhibition continues to this day. Her grandfather, Joseph A. Cain, organized the first National Drawing and Small Sculpture Show at Del Mar.
“I believe he wanted to help bring greater prestige to the educational institution he loved, Del Mar College, through an art show that exhibited work from across the nation,” Calloway said.
To view the drawings and small sculptures visit the Joseph A. Cain Memorial Art Gallery in the Fine Arts Building through May 8.
