2024 Fall Scholar's Compass

09/03/2024

Katie Pendleton

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Salon Wall Transforms the Woodward Library's Basement

This summer, the basement of the Woodward Library became home to something new: a student-curated salon wall. Led by art history student Naomi Hundt, with guidance from senior gallery assistant Mai Mai Newberry, it was her first time creating a salon wall, and the result brings fresh energy and character to the space.The Inspiration “The salon wall was inspired by creepy basements, like the downstairs of the library,” Naomi explained. “We chose pieces we thought were dark with a creepy feeling. We also wanted to display a lot of the newly purchased student pieces from the 57th Annual Juried Exhibition.”Mai Mai, who has worked on past installations in the library, agreed that the setting shaped the vision.“We drew inspiration from the library’s basement, its tucked-away quality, and how that atmosphere could be reflected in the art,” she said.When asked to sum it up in three words, Naomi chose “eerie, stylish, bold,” while Mai Mai described it as “patterned, literary, rhythmic.”The ProcessCreating a salon wall is no easy feat. With so many works to balance, every decision matters.“Within each piece you have to think about the direction they are moving to, the size and frame of each piece, and the colors within them,” Naomi said. “In order to have a cohesive wall there’s a lot of trial and error in putting each piece up.”Mai Mai emphasized how difficult it is to create a wall that truly works together as a whole.“The simple answer would be to just fill the wall with whatever is available, but we wanted more intention than that. Each work had to speak to us and to the overall vision. That takes time, effort, and a lot of careful looking.”For Naomi, one of the most satisfying parts was creating hidden connections within the larger theme.“There’s a painting with flowers, and below it I placed a beetle print. It creates a little nature theme within the larger wall.”And for Mai Mai, the defining moment came at the very end.“When we hung the final piece—the single work beside the doors—we knew instantly that it was the finishing touch. It completed the wall.”The ImpactSeeing the wall in place has been rewarding for both students.“I’m very proud of this wall,” Naomi said. “It was my first ever salon wall, so I was very nervous when I first started hanging work, but I think it turned out great. I’m very excited for everyone to see it.”Mai Mai emphasized the importance of incorporating art into everyday student spaces.“Our role is to make the public collection truly public. Even if students don’t consciously realize it, art on the walls enriches their space. A bare wall communicates very little; one filled with artwork sparks thought and feeling. If we could, we’d love to extend that presence across the entire campus, that’s the dream.”More than decoration, she hopes the wall becomes part of the library’s identity.“Ideally, the wall becomes a subtle landmark or something you might use as a meeting point. ‘I’ll meet you by the wall of artwork on the first floor.’ It turns an ordinary spot into a distinctive one.”Looking AheadBoth Naomi and Mai Mai are pursuing art history with the goal of working in museums or galleries. Their time curating installations at Austin Peay has given them hands-on experience in art handling, display, and storytelling.And while Mai Mai oversaw the process, she is quick to note that this was Naomi’s project from start to finish. The finished wall stands as a bold and thoughtful showcase of student creativity.The salon wall is now on display in the basement of the Woodward Library for students and visitors to experience. ...

Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones

The Woodward Library Society is honored to welcome author Sharon Mabry back for our Fall Event at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28, in the APSU Art + Design Building's Heydel Hall.In her program, Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones, Mabry will reflect on the journey of writing her latest book. She’ll share a selection of readings that highlight its humor and heart, while also offering encouragement and practical tips for anyone curious about writing their own memoir.About the BookThe Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones gathers together a lifetime of experiences, from growing up in the mountains of East Tennessee to navigating the changes of family, marriage, and retirement. Mabry balances moments of tenderness with a sharp sense of humor, showing how even the everyday—like a mischievous family dog or a neighbor’s quirks—can leave lasting impressions. The book has been praised for its warmth and authenticity, with reviewers noting how Mabry’s stories invite readers to reflect on their own lives with both laughter and empathy.The book has earned widespread praise for its wit and emotional depth. Anna Lee Huber, USA Today bestselling author, describes it as “cozy, comforting, amusing, and brimming with heart,” while author Julia Brewer Daily calls it “poignant, with clever descriptions and sometimes laugh-out-loud humor.” The memoir has also earned national recognition, named a finalist for both Best Autobiography/Memoir and Best Nonfiction Book Cover in the 2024 American Writing Awards. Copies will be available at the event for $15 each, payable by cash or check.About the AuthorSharon Mabry is an author, acclaimed mezzo-soprano soloist, and longtime educator. Before retiring in 2022, she taught music at Austin Peay State University for 52 years, inspiring generations of students and earning the university’s highest honors for both teaching and creativity. Beyond her memoir, Mabry has written extensively about music and performance, published two scholarly books, and contributed to major music journals. Her earlier novel, The Postmaster’s Daughter (2022), is a historical mystery set in East Tennessee. It was a finalist for Best Debut Fiction in the American Writing Awards and for the National Indie Excellence Awards. The audiobook, narrated by Mabry herself, is now available on Apple Books and Amazon.Join UsDon’t miss this chance to spend an evening with one of APSU’s most distinguished voices. Through humor, storytelling, and honest reflection, Sharon Mabry reminds us that memories shape us—and that sharing them can inspire others to find their own voice.Event Details📖 Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones📅 Tuesday, October 28🕠 5:30 - 6:00 p.m. — Reception 6:00 - 6:45 p.m. — Presentation and Questions 6:45 - 7:15 p.m. — Book Signing📍 Heydel Hall, Art + Design Building, room 120...

Help the Woodward Library Expand the Makerspace

Help the Woodward Library Expand the Makerspace! The Woodward Library's Makerspace has become a hub of creativity and innovation on campus. Students bring amazing ideas to life in our Makerspace by crafting costumes with 3D printers, designing and printing stickers, and giving worn items new life with our sewing tools. Now we're ready to grow - with your help! The Woodward Library has been selected for a GOVing Tuesday fundraising opportunity! Your support can bring even more creative possibilities to our thriving Makerspace community. The people who use our Makerspace most frequently are helping shape its future. Students and staff have directly requested the items on our wishlist, sharing from firsthand experience what would make our space even better. Dominic Croll, our tech expert, has carefully researched the best equipment options. Adam Shelton, manager of special projects in the Library, saw the need for large-format printing and championed adding a professional plotter printer. Deanna Sherry, the Makerspace team lead, proposed adding an embroidery machine after seeing it become our most frequently requested tool from Makerspace users. These new tools will transform what's possible in our space. The Makerspace already offers 3D printers, VR headsets, Cricut and Cameo cutting machines, and sewing equipment. With your help, we can offer even more! Every donation counts, no matter the size. Funds raised beyond our goal will support the Library Fund of Excellence, helping us continue providing innovative resources. Ready to help build the future of our Makerspace? GOVing Tuesday is December 3rd, but you can contribute at any time by visiting the GOVing Tuesday donation page. ...

Woodward Library Student Focus Group Nov 13

Join Woodward Library for an informal focus group and share your feedback on library spaces, services, technology, and resources. This is an opportunity to let us know how we are and ways we can better suit your needs. Pizza and snacks will be provided! Date: Wednesday, Nov. 13 Time: 5 PM Place: Woodward Library, room 232 Space is limited! ...

2024 Fall Scholar's Compass

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