Students who walk past the check-out desk and the “popular reading” display in the University of Mary Washington’s Simpson Library will find a newly named nook.
It’s quiet in the Research and Creativity Collaborative (RCC), but its mission – to highlight UMW’s emphasis on scholarly endeavors and artistic success – comes through loud and clear. A touch-screen kiosk allows access to a repository of original research and student artwork adorns the walls, while hanging plants, table lamps and comfy seating paint a collaborative mood.
“The space is beautiful,” said Director of Undergraduate Research and Professor of Spanish Elizabeth Lewis, who runs the Collaborative, working to match students and faculty with the funding, connections and opportunities it takes to bring their projects to life. “To me it’s a visible reminder of the UMW community’s enthusiasm for these transformative experiences.”
Senior Madison Hinton spoke of her own life-changing endeavor at an open house to début the space early this month. With her sketches and paintings on view, the art major recounted the six summer weeks she spent capturing the lavender fields and mountainous terrain of Aix-en-Provence in the South of France. An essay and portfolio won her a spot in the plein air painting program at the American College of the Mediterranean’s Institute of American Universities, where she also studied masters like Cézanne and Monet.
“I’m excited to see where this space goes,” said Hinton, whose trip was fully funded, thanks to the Rosalie Chauncey Memorial Scholarship in Studio Art. Read more.