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SILVER CITY — Western New Mexico University’s Expressive Arts Department and the Francis McCray Gallery of Contemporary Art have unveiled the 2026 Student Juried Art Exhibition, showcasing a wide range of student work that reflects both technical skill and creative exploration.
A highlight of the university’s spring cultural calendar, the exhibition emphasizes WNMU’s applied liberal arts approach, encouraging students to blend traditional artistic techniques with contemporary social, environmental, and personal themes.
“The Student Juried Exhibition is a meaningful part of what we do as a teaching gallery within the Expressive Arts Department,” said Jill Winburn, director of the Francis McCray Gallery. “It gives students the opportunity to present their work in a professional setting and receive feedback from an outside juror.”
Awards for the 2026 exhibition were announced during the opening reception held in late January, recognizing outstanding student achievements across multiple artistic disciplines. The honors provide students with professional recognition and strengthen their portfolios as they prepare for careers in the arts and creative industries.
Award recipients include Erika Cozine, who received the Phoebe Lawrence Ceramic Award for “Depletion,” and Riata Lindley, who earned the Light Art Space Award for Photography for “Ephemeral and Eternal.” The Watercolor Society Award went to Sally Tilton for “A Strand of Pearls.” Leticia Marquez received an honorable mention for “Building Blocks,” while third place was awarded to Rylee Myers for “All the Little Things Moving in the Night.” Caleb Macias earned second place for “Freaky Fresh Product Line,” and first place was awarded to Gabe Farley for “Slightly Familiar Channels.”
The exhibition features work influenced by the region’s geography and culture while also reflecting broader personal and contemporary experiences. Media on display range from experimental ceramics and sculpture to drawing, watercolor, photography, and digital design.
Winburn said the experience of exhibiting work in a gallery setting can be transformative for students. “Seeing your artwork thoughtfully installed on gallery walls often changes how students view their own work and builds confidence,” she said. “When that experience is shared with classmates, faculty, family, and the community, it becomes even more meaningful.”