Reflections on Costa Rica: Students & Faculty Creatively Respond to An International Travel Experience

“It’s a dangerous business, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.”  - J.R.R. Tolkein

Appalachian State University students had the opportunity to explore photography and printmaking in Costa Rica in June of 2011 as part of a study abroad opportunity organized by Scott Ludwig, Associate Professor of Printmaking, Department of Art and Dr. Garner Dewey, Associate Dean of the College of Fine and Applied Arts and Associate Professor within the Department of Technology and Environmental Design.

This studio-based, international trip was designed for students to participate in hands-on workshops in photography and printmaking/mixed-media at various institutions such as the University of Costa Rica and Casa del Artista in San José. Students also traveled extensively in-country, visiting numerous national parks for the purpose of photographically documenting the biodiversity within the stunningly rich landscape that has come to define Costa Rica.

Working with the program directors and in collaboration with numerous Costa Rican artists, students commenced development of a thematic body of work based on their personal observations and experiences culled from fieldwork and photo-excursions to locations such as Arenal Volcano, Poas, Rincon de la Vieja, and various coastal and urban communities. As a capstone experience, the culmination of this creative work will be featured in this thematic art exhibition.

Exhibition participants include...

• Jaclyn Bowie (Studio Art Alumni '11)
• Elliott Chalmers (Senior Studio Art Major)
• Paton Davis (Junior Art Major)
• Kenny Grier (Senior Graphic Design Major)
• Lily Brittany Lane (Senior Studio Art Major)
• Kirby Mellott (Senior Studio Art Major)
• Sean O’Shea (Senior Graphic Design Major)
• Dr. Garner G. Dewey (Associate Dean of College of Fine & Applied Arts and Associate Professor of the Department of Technology and Environmental Design)
• Scott Ludwig (Associate Professor of Printmaking, Department of Art)

..with special guest, Costa Rican artist...

• Priscilla Romero Cubero