Graduation is a moment many students dream about, but as it arrives for Anna Berghorst and Ellen Lundgren, an anxiety of real world blues and college freedom joys have begun to set in.

Before the two Grand Valley State University art seniors can take home their diplomas, though, they have to present a senior showcase.

Putting together the show, which features work and skills they have developed during their college careers, was a sometimes overwhelming task for Lendgren.

“(It was) daunting, but kind of awesome and exciting, but it is a lot of work and it’s a big finish for graduation,” Lendgren said. “It is kind of scary ‘cause I know once this big hill, its like off into the real world and it is a daunting feeling.”

The two seniors knew their senior showcase pairing would work well, having known each other since they started at GVSU. And although Berghorst is a metals major and Lundgren is a visual studies major, their real life experiences helped to blend the exhibit, Lundgren said.

“We talked about what we were doing and then decided,” Berghorst said. “You know, it kind of fits together because they’re both about what we appreciate and what we like – our feelings towards life basically.” Although the two worked together to combine some pieces, which will be showcased in the Padnos Student Gallery in the Calder Art Center, they kept their independence and style.

Berghorst drew a lot of inspiration for her pieces from the environment that has always been around her.

“Basically I grew up in West Michigan with, like, a bunch of woods around, and I love going out into the woods and seeing all the tangled bushes and other plant life,” Berghorst said.

The natural elements fit well alongside Lundgren’s pieces, which she said are based off of experiences with her past religion and current beliefs, as well as difficult emotional times that she has battled.

“I am a strong atheist, and coming from Christianity to atheism, and then struggling with anxiety and depression, so it is a mix of both of those,” Lundgren said. “It is kind of my views of religion and atheism to a mental illness.”

Expressing such emotional and personal feelings might cause a variety of opinions in viewers, Lundgren said.

“I am hoping people will see a different perspective,” Lundgren said. “My point isn’t to make people angry, though I am sure that will happen. I’d like people to see some of what an atheist looks like, and how I look at the world and what it is like through my lens.”

The two seniors are looking forward to seeing the finished product but the finish line seems far away.

“I am really curious to see what it will all look like all finished and up in one room together and as well as with Anna’s pieces,” Lundgren said. “And I am really excited to see what people will think of it. I have never had this many people looking at my artwork at one time, so it will be really new and exciting.”

Their showcase debuts April 1 and runs through April 5, with a reception featuring the two artists for questions on April 4. The gallery is free and open to the public.
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