When the word, “art,” is mentioned, many people may automatically think of painting, music, drawing, and so on. But, architecture can also be seen as a form of art. Not only does it takes imagination to create new and innovative designs and artistic talent to bring those ideas to life, but it can also be used to express or capture feelings.
I recently had the opportunity to attend the opening of the latest exhibit for the Rao Musunuro, M.D. Art Gallery at the Pasco-Hernando State College New Port Richey campus, the PHSC STEMworks exhibit. The art features work by industry partners, current PHSC students (some of whom are involved in the college’s CAD and engineering programs) and PHSC alumni. Some of the works are part of the curriculum in courses like welding, drafting and design, industrial applications, and others, and are comprised of skillfully created 2D and 3D art.
While I expected there to be a wide range of subjects chosen for the exhibit, I was amazed at the creativity, skill, and the incredible variety found in the works there. From detailed physical models of structures to sketched and computer rendered pieces. Almost every interest, style, and idea related to architecture was represented.
What struck me about the artists and faculty present at the event, was their amazing passion for the field, and their excitement at being able to share their work with others.
Thomas Creuz has several works displayed that all feature downtown Tampa that he created using CAD.
Matthew Kurtz is also a PHSC student who had his art featured in the exhibit. The piece was created using the AutoCAD program, and he explained that his project originally started out as an apartment complex. However, the idea grew into a more elaborate project with the concept of the structure not only filled with apartments, but also with small stores and schools, complete with a parking garage connected to the structure.
Not only were students present at the opening, but faculty and industry partners were there as well, including Margie Burnham, the Assistant Dean of STEM and Academic Affairs at PHSC.
“This STEM show is to feature and highlight the programs we have and how the technology is cutting edge and it also could be considered art. And we wanted to show the wonderful things we’re doing and showcase our students and alumni and our industry partners which are all here,” Mrs. Burnham explained.
She also spoke about, “Hernando Made,” which she described as, “a brand that was created by the manufacturing committee in Hernando County so they can start celebrating all of the equipment and products that are designed, created and produced all in Hernando County.”
Interestingly, she also pointed out a time capsule that was created by the welding faculty and students from PHSC.
Jack Plant, Professor of Drafting and Design Technology, who characterizes himself as a retired soldier with his, “encore career,” as a teacher was also in attendance. He explained that he is able to let students work on projects in his course that interest them, allowing them to explore different areas. The program is also able to provide the students with a foundation to help prepare them for when they graduate.
Professor Plant talked very highly of his students, saying, “The great part about this program is you see all this student work around here. They just do a wonderful job. They’re smart students, they do well, and the good news is, we’re getting them jobs.”
Another faculty member in attendance was Jessica Bennett, the instructor for Engineering Technology at PHSC. At one time she was a research and development engineer, but made the transition to teaching. She described the students she works with as very skilled, and expressed that she enjoys helping students achieve and succeed.
AMSkills (American Manufacturing Skills Initiative) was also there, with two students, Hunter and Tyler, as well as AMSkills Pasco and Hernando Operations Manager, Seig Veil. Both students seemed very passionate about the program, listing a number of ways it has helped them and given them real experience to prepare them for the future. The project they worked on is a deadbolt made from steel. Mr. Veil helped to explain a little bit more about the program and highlighted the technical skills that the program helps students learn including machinist, tool & die maker, industrial mechanic, mechatronics, and electronics.
Jesse Kokoteck, the Curriculum Coordinator with FLATE (Florida Advanced Technology Education Center) explained that they, “track the 2-year technology programs in the state,” further describing his role in helping to ensure that the schools are, “on the same page,” and that the curriculum is up to date with the latest developments in the field.
The current exhibit can be viewed from now until December 13th, 2016. The gallery is open Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
It is located within the Alric C.T. Pottberg Library at the PHSC West Campus. The address is 10230 Ridge Road, New Port Richey, FL 34654. For more information about the gallery or information about extended and/or seasonal summer hours, be sure to call 727-816-3231 and visit them online at phsc.edu/gallery.
All exhibits are presented at no charge to the public.