Whether you are entering or leaving the Richardson Art building, it is inevitable to not catch a glance at the bright, red neon sign that reads “Hot Now”.
On March 20, the art department held a reception that included a celebration with awards, fellowships and a deep appreciation for artistic voices across campus. There are over 50 pieces on display at the exhibition, ranging from different mediums such as painting, drawing and ceramics to new, technology-powered explorations in digital fabrication and enhanced reality.
The Hot Now exhibition has been happening for the past 28 years and Dr. Oscar Soto, studio arts manager, has overseen the exhibition each year. The art pieces selected to put on display are determined by a jury consisting of the professors who teach a studio art course. This year the jury included Dr. Micheal Webster, Dr. Jessica Scott-Felder and Dr. Rebecca Forstater.
“The pieces in this exhibition are facets of explorations, questions being asked, material being explored,” Soto said. “It’s really a tremendous moment to bring it all into one space and celebrate not just what the art department does, but something that is a part of Wofford College and Wofford life.”
During the presentation of the student awards, two prestigious fellowships were announced, spotlighting exceptional student talent and providing opportunities for artistic growth beyond the classroom.
Lyrical Gist ’26 was awarded the Whetsell Fellowship, which supports a student in conducting summer research and creating a new body of work for a solo exhibition during the following academic year.
“It’s a showcase of the highest art at Wofford,” said Dr. Michael Webster, assistant professor of studio art.
The Hackney-Hield Fellowship was awarded to Blythe Hann ’27. Funded by a Wofford alumnus and now in its fourth year, the fellowship covers the full cost for a student to attend a two-week summer workshop at the Finland School of Craft—including travel, lodging, materials and tuition.
Gist’s featured work, “Muse,” is a portrait of her best friend and a study in both technique and emotion.
“It’s a tribute to someone I love and appreciate deeply,” Gist said.
Enthusiastic about the opportunity Gist earned with the fellowship, she is already orchestrating what her solo exhibition will consist of.
“It will explore themes of childlike whimsy and how that wonder fades in adulthood,” Gist said.
Thomas Langley ’25 was among the featured artists, with his work showcased in the exhibition for the fourth time this year. His artwork delves into the cyclical nature of feeling trapped in a trance.
“The purpose of this painting was an emotional release,” Langley said. “I was trying to put into an image what it is like to be stuck in a trance where you think you can’t get over something but you want to.”
As one moves through the exhibition, immersing themselves in the artist’s vision, it becomes fascinating to glimpse how each creator interprets and reflects on various themes of the world. The Hot Now exhibition is on display until April 18.
