ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico hosted its third annual ARTSSPLASH event, featuring music, art, dancing, and more. The event aimed to celebrate Fine Arts at UNM and raise awareness about various programs within the college.

Students gathered to watch live performances by the Department of Theatre and Dance and the Department of Music. Faculty and staff wore white tie-dye “ARTSSPLASH” t-shirts under white tents, while students collected pamphlets from different arts programs.

“ARTSSPLASH is an idea created three years ago and it’s an opportunity to share the arts with the rest of the UNM campus,” said Harris Smith, Dean for the College of Fine Arts. “We have a lot of new and old faculty and students who aren't aware of the events that take place during the school year… We want to share that with the community.”

The Fine Arts Department set up booths for students to learn about programs, win prizes, enjoy food trucks, and receive free t-shirts. Students were also encouraged to bring resumes to connect with local art organizations.

Ashley Kelly, Professor of Saxophone and Music Department Recruitment Coordinator, emphasized that the event was beneficial for all students at UNM. “I see it number one as enriching our community here on campus. Giving people an idea of what happens here at the College of Fine Arts,” Kelly said. “If you’re not a music student or art student you may not know about what our colleges have to offer.”

Kelly highlighted opportunities for non-music majors in the Department of Music. “For music it shows that we actually have lots of opportunities for non-music majors to participate... Those students who don’t study music here think they can’t get involved. I want them to know, hey, you know, come talk to us, you’d be surprised,” Kelly said.

Music played from speakers as students waited in lines for different colleges. Tables displayed pamphlets, newspapers, stickers, and flyers related to each college and club under Fine Arts.

One table featured a 3D sculpture of the moon while another showcased half-made violins from the violin-making program. Each table offered something unique.

For many students, ARTSSPLASH was their first exposure to UNM's art scene. Freshman Aiden Terry found it helpful in connecting him with resources for pursuing an Art Studio degree. “I’m really interested in learning all the different types of programs the college has to offer,” Terry said. “It’s great exposure and I hope they have this next year so I can stay connected on campus.”

A slight breeze kept attendees cool under New Mexico's sun. Previous events had been postponed or canceled due to weather but this year saw clear skies.

Arts Lab Manager Valery Estabrook encouraged all students to get involved in art regardless of their skill level in traditional mediums like drawing or painting. “When a person says oh, I’m not good at art, the first thing I want to do is challenge them... Art is a huge term for so many other things than painting and drawing. Give yourself a chance to be expressive with a different medium,” Estabrook said.

The event concluded around mid-afternoon but will return next Fall.