Twenty La Sierra University art students exhibited 31 pieces of original art at the Riverside County Philharmonic performance of “Good Ol’ American Music” in February.

The project met La Sierra’s service learning objectives that require classes to have projects in the community that meet needs and are related to the course material. “Service learning goes beyond tutoring,” says Mejia-Krumbein. “We spent time on the show, the display, and talking to the community. We also had a reception before and after the concert and had to dismantle the exhibit.”

The students worked on original art pieces while listening to inspiration from compositions by George Gershwin, Leonard Bernstein and other composers that would be performed by the Riverside County Philharmonic during the “Good Ol’ American Music” concert.

“Advanced students had six weeks to work on their project while some of the beginners had three,” says Beatriz Mejia-Krumbein, LSU art department chair who coordinated this project and taught the art classes. “It is the first time we have done a show like this. I have a degree in music education, and when I look at the art the students created I can really see the music.” Students were responsible for his or her art piece or pieces, set-up, exhibit time and tear down.

“I did not know Beatriz, but within 10 minutes of talking about how the arts are interconnected we had established this venue,” says Patricia Korzec, executive director of the Riverside County Philharmonic. “The event was wonderful. I have had good reactions from the public. Afterwards I was surprised that the viewing area of the artwork was packed, and people were engaged in conversation with students. People usually leave directly after concerts. It was a nice collaboration. The students were so professional and great to work with.”

“I learned more about being an artist,” says Gianina Carlos, freshman fine arts major. “It was a valuable experience. I was able to look at a different reaction from the community and dialog on art, which is what being an artist is all about. I also learned what it feels like to take pride in my work or exhibit.”

“I enjoy classical music, but I did not expect this to turn out as well as it did,” says Sara Crapo, senior liberal studies major. “It turned out to be very rewarding. Someone even offered to buy my painting.”

“It was a lot of fun and interesting listening and creating something,” says Jose Mariscal, senior fine arts major. “Usually other students and family see work. But it was good to come out into the community and have our artwork on the exhibit.”

The “Good Ol’ American Music” student art exhibit was also displayed during La Sierra’s February homecoming weekend as well as during a monthly Riverside Art Walk that took place in March.