The St. Edward’s University Fine Arts Gallery is currently filled with yarn covered antlers, Hillary Clinton themed dresses, impressionistic oil paintings and hauntingly dark photographs–all of them created by current students.

In December of last year, students having coursework in art, graphic design, photocommunications or theater were encouraged to submit up to three original pieces to an unkown juror who would then select what would be on display.

Hollis Hammonds, the Director of the Fine Arts Gallery, initiated the student juried exhibition in 2010 in order to unite the multiple departments that share the Fine Arts Building.

“There was not enough connection between the photo, graphic design and art departments,” Hammonds said. “Plus there weren’t many opportunities for underclassmen work to be exhibited.  [The student juried exhibition] gives them professional experience.”

Hammonds, a visual artist herself, currently serves on the City of Austin’s Art in Public Places advisory panel with local curator Salvador Castillo and therefore chose him as the exhibition’s curator for his experience and expertise.

Castillo sifted through the 157 submissions and finally selected 69 original student works to lay out in the gallery.

Sophomore photocommunications major Deanna Crane saw the exhibit as a chance to get her work out there and see how people reacted.

“I wanted to submit because I am constantly striving to have my photos be seen and having a conversation about them and where they can go,” Crane said. “I think it’s crucial as a young artist to be talking about the work being made and how it can change and evolve.”

Her photo “Whataburger: 2AM” and project “I wish for…” (a collaboration with senior Gerald Llorence) were both accepted for exhibition.

“It is such an honor to be in the show,” Crane said. “Seeing my work on a beautiful white wall with my name next to it brings me such hope.”

Some students even won prizes and awards for their work with Senior photocommunications major Nolan Green taking Best in Show for his photo “Manscaped #3.”

Senior art major Jordan Hamilton won first place for her mixed media piece entitled “Feelings” and is grateful for the opportunity.

“It’s hard finding places to show your work as a student,” Hamilton said. “And because it’s juried, it gives you a competitive edge.

Hamilton is proud of her award in the show. The only issue she must face now is how to spend her $75 Amazon gift card prize.

The exhibition is located in the Fine Arts Gallery located inside the Fine Arts building and will be open from weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. until Feb. 8.