The 10th installation of Marshall University’s Annual Juried Exhibition is officially open to the public both in person and virtually at the Charles W. and Norma C. Carroll Gallery from Jan. 19-Feb. 12.  

The juried exhibitions are open to any artist that wishes to apply. Their work is submitted digitally for review, which is then handpicked by the juror, who essentially curates the entire exhibition.   

This year the exhibition is juried by veteran curator and artist, Jason Franz, who is primarily based out of Cincinnati, Ohio. Franz is the founder and director of “Manifest” which is an art space located in Cincinnati that boasts two galleries and hosts many exhibitions and shows.   

Jamie Platt, the Gallery Director and Facilities Coordinator for the School of Art and Design said that the juried aspect of the exhibition is what makes it so unique.  

“That’s the magic of it. They try to create an exhibition out of a pile of desperate elements by just noticing affinities,” Platt said. “It’s not unlike making a work of art because when you make a work of art you have the different elements, and you have to find a way to make a cohesive whole.”   

Platt said that she was particularly excited to work with Franz this year because of his notoriety, which she felt that would attract people’s attention and interest. The juried exhibition celebrates over 16 artists from different areas and disciplines and displays nearly 25 different works ranging from paintings to sculptures handpicked by Franz. Of the 16 artists participating in the exhibition, only three are affiliated with Marshall University.   

Chase Marcum, a Huntington native, who is most known for his modern furniture pieces talked about his experience as a first-time featured artist in an exhibition.   

Marcum seemed particularly shocked that his piece was included in this year’s exhibition.   

“I don’t really feel like my stuff plays in the realm of art,” Marcum said. “It’s furniture so it’s more functional, and when you think of art you think of pictures hanging on a wall.”   

Marcum said that despite his surprise at being selected, he’s very proud of his work. The mid-century modern cabinet that he submitted is what he considers one of his more cohesive pieces.  

“They have to be functional,” Marcum said. “I like my pieces to be simple because if the lines are all over the place or they’re too distracting, it detracts from the piece.”   

A virtual reception for the exhibition will be held on January 28th at 5:30 p.m. and is open to all who wish to attend.

Miranda Valles can be contacted at [email protected]