Fall 2023 Fine Arts News

College of Fine Arts

FALL 2023

FINE ARTS NEWS

From the DEAN

Dear Friends of the Arts, My first year as the Teresa Ann Carter King Dean of the College of Fine Arts has truly been a joy. Our nationally ranked college continues to be guided by our mission to prepare the next generation of creative leaders in the arts. Within the pages of this edition of Fine Arts News are stories that reveal the innovative projects, research and community partner ships our students and faculty undertook over the past year that led to exceptional creative and academic accomplishments. Our work as educators, artists, researchers and entrepreneurs has made a significant impact on the broader TCU community. This year, the College of Fine Arts, along with the entire campus, joined in celebrating TCU’s Sesquicentennial with a multitude of commemorative events. The fine and performing arts have been integral to TCU’s 150-year history, and I am confident they will remain fundamental to the institution for the next 150. At the end of the spring semester we bid farewell to retiring faculty whom we will miss as colleagues and friends. I know you will enjoy reading about the impressive career accomplishments of our six retirees, all of whom leave behind a legacy of outstanding

teaching, mentorship and influence on our students. Our gratitude for each of them, their commitment to the arts and their impact is boundless. Our creative activities did not cease this summer, either. We hosted the annual PianoTexas festival in June, welcoming aspiring young pianists and international guest artists to our campus. Additionally, hundreds of future Horned Frogs have made their way to campus for orientation, workshops and various music and theatre camps throughout the entire summer. As we enter the new school year, visit finearts.tcu.edu/events to find information about this year’s season of performances, productions, recitals, exhibits and lectures. As advocates for the creative work we do, thank you. See you soon,

PHOTO: JAMES ANGER

Amy Hardison Tully, DMA Teresa Ann Carter King Dean College of Fine Arts

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PHOTO: RODGER MALLISON

College of Fine Arts

6 ART SPOTLIGHT History of the Visual Arts 8 FASHION MERCHANDISING SPOTLIGHT Learning the Art of Workwear 12 MUSIC SPOTLIGHT Reaching New Heights 14 DANCE SPOTLIGHT A Triumphant Return 18 DESIGN SPOTLIGHT Conversations for Community Connection 20 THEATRE SPOTLIGHT On Stage

Amy Hardison Tully Teresa Ann Carter King Dean of the College of Fine Arts a.h.tully@tcu.edu Janace Bubonia Associate Dean for Academic Affairs j.bubonia@tcu.edu Lori Diel Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Development l.diel@tcu.edu Angela Strittmatter Director of Development a.strittmatter@tcu.edu Dick Lane Director, School of Art r.lane@tcu.edu Elizabeth Gillaspy Director, School for Classical & Contemporary Dance e.a.gillaspy@tcu.edu David Elizalde Chair, Department of Design d.p.elizalde@tcu.edu Sally Fortenberry Chair, Department of Fashion Merchandising s.fortenberry@tcu.edu Sean Atkinson Director, School of Music sean.atkinson@tcu.edu Jennifer Engler Chair, Department of Theatre Assistant to the Dean c.a.franklin@tcu.edu Adrianna Martinez Marketing & Communications Coordinator a.i.martinez3@tcu.edu j.engler@tcu.edu Carrie Franklin

In Every Issue 2 Dean’s Letter 10 Board of Visitors 16 New Faculty

finearts.tcu.edu 817-257-2787 finearts@tcu.edu

ON THE COVER Theatre TCU’s spring 2023 production of “The Mystery of Edwin Drood.” Photo: Amy Peterson

@TCUFineArts

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Fortenberry Named Piper Professor

Distinguished Appointments

The following individuals are recipients of promotions and awards from the Board of Trustees for achievements in teaching, creative activities and unwavering service to the College of Fine Arts and TCU. School for Classical & Contemporary Dance Sarah Newton, MFA Promoted to Instructor II Keith Saunders, MFA Promoted to Associate Professor of Professional Practice Department of Design Jan Ballard Promoted to Senior Instructor Lewis Glaser, MFA Awarded the title of Emeritus Professor of Design Amy Roehl, MFA Promoted to Professor Department of Fashion Merchandising Jay Ryu, Ph.D . Promoted to Professor School of Music Gina Bombola, Ph.D. Promoted to Instructor II Richard Gipson, D.Ed. Awarded the title of Dean Emeritus and Professor of Music James Rodriguez, DMA Promoted to Associate Professor with tenure Laura Singletary, Ph.D. Promoted to Associate Professor with tenure

PHOTO: ROBERT BURN

Sally Fortenberry, department chair and professor in the Department of Fashion Merchandising, was named a Piper Professor of 2023.

Sally Fortenberry, Ph.D. , department chair and professor in the Department of Fashion Merchandising, was named a Piper Professor of 2023 for the state of Texas by the Minnie Stevens Piper Foundation. Fortenberry joins an elite group of 13 TCU professors to receive the prestigious honor. “It is an honor to be recognized alongside my peers throughout the state for teaching and mentoring students every day,” Fortenberry said. “Teaching is my calling, from which I have reaped great satisfaction for over 35 years. The success of my students is how I gauge my own success as an educator, and I consider them all to be outstanding.” The Minnie Stevens Piper Foundation founded the Piper Professor awards in 1958 to recognize 10 professors each year across Texas for their outstanding scholarly achievement and dedication to the teaching profession. “Dr. Fortenberry exemplifies what makes TCU truly extraordinary: our people,” said Teresa Abi-Nader Dahlberg, provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “Her leadership, mentorship and dedication to teaching our students are exciting to see. I congratulate her on this selective statewide honor and thank her for her contributions to the intellectual vitality and academic reputation of TCU.” v

Amy Stewart, DWS Promoted to Instructor II Heather Test, MM Promoted to Instructor II Department of Theatre Ian Loveall, MFA Promoted to Associate Professor with tenure

Krista Scott, MFA Promoted to Professor

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Shaping the Future of Creative Leaders

PHOTO: KRISTEN QUEEN

The program’s structure is designed to encourage cross-disciplinary conversations, fostering an appreciation for the valuable role of fine arts in society. With engaging coursework and discussions, students develop the necessary skills to lead and serve in their future careers. Students also have the opportunity to meet with renowned fine arts leaders and organizations. In Queen’s “Leadership, Dynamics and Planning in the Arts” class, students attended the Kimbell Art Museum’s special exhibition of “Turner’s Modern World.” Students met with the museum’s leadership and staff to learn about the planning and community outreach for the exhibit.

The program culminates in either a capstone project or internship focused on impacting the arts both on and off the TCU campus. Mikayla Rudolf ’23, a recent ballet graduate, completed an internship with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra under Senior Manager of Marketing & Communications Katie Kelly ’18. The internship provided Rudolf with the opportunity to support grant research and donor events, analyze institutional giving and assist with education and community programs. Chloe Bruns ’22 utilized her program experience and skills to become the development manager of institutional giving and operations for the Mercury Chamber Orchestra in Houston. “The TCU Arts Leadership and Entrepreneurship Program played an essential role in my career path and honing my passion,” Bruns reflected. “The program opened my eyes to so many opportunities for career trajectories that would have otherwise gone unnoticed.” v

PHOTO: MIKAYLA RUDOLF

The TCU Arts Leadership and Entrepreneurship program prepares students to become the next generation of creative trailblazers. The program is led by Kristen Queen, Ed.D., director of the Academic Resource Center in the College of Fine Arts. Her goal is to equip students with the tools and skills to serve as ethical leaders in the global community. Since taking charge of the program in 2021, Queen has witnessed a 175% increase in course enrollment, attracting students from diverse academic fields across campus. Students can pursue a minor or certificate in arts leadership and entrepreneurship. “I believe much of the interest stems from students wanting to make a difference within their communities,” Queen said. “Whether that’s through employment in the fine arts or serving on committees and boards.” After completing an introductory course, students can choose from four different courses to develop skills in leadership, management, arts marketing, audience engagement, nonprofit finance and fundraising, among others. “Students are attracted to the program because it not only feels relevant in the short-term but also excites them about their future,” Queen said. Kristen Queen’s class attending the Turner’s Modern World exhibit in Fall 2021.

Mikayla Rudolf ’23 with Courtney Mayden, the grant manager at the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra.

PHOTO: CHLOE BRUNS

Chloe Bruns ’22 is the newly appointed development manager of institutional giving and operations for the Mercury Chamber Orchestra in Houston.

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History of the Visual Arts Group exhibition featuring students, faculty and alumni celebrates the university’s artistic spirit

PHOTOS: GLEN E. ELMAN (UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)

Sara-Jayne Parsons is the director of The Art Galleries at TCU.

PHOTO: SARA-JAYNE PARSONS

PHOTO: RAUL RODRIGUEZ

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ART SPOTLIGHT

Nestled on the corner of West Berry Street and Greene Avenue, the Fort Worth Contemporary Arts building featured a special exhibition that attracted hundreds of visitors and alumni. Old friends hugged and greeted one another, reminiscing on their time at TCU and celebrating the legacy and future of the visual arts on campus. “People have said it was like a family reunion,” said Richard Lane, director of the School of Art. “I saw one of my students from 1992, and it was wonderful to see them still actively involved in the art community.” The School of Art and The Arts Galleries at TCU brought the university’s 150th anniversary to life through “150 Years /150 Artists,” a group exhibition featuring current students, faculty and alumni who have contributed to the artistic spirit of TCU. The opening reception boasted over 350 attendees, making it one of the largest events of all time for the School of Art. Sara-Jayne Parsons, Ph.D., director of The Art Galleries at TCU, curated the event. “My favorite part of being a curator is getting a creative spark,” said Parsons. “And, at the end of the process, there is a gathering of artwork and people for a specific reason.” Parsons has developed forward-thinking exhibitions and panel discussions for the community since her arrival on campus in 2014. Her time as curator of visual programming at the Bluecoat, a contemporary arts center in Liverpool, England, instilled a keen understanding of becoming a caretaker not only of the past, but also of the future. Artists at Work As part of the university’s Sesquicentennial celebration, the 150th Executive Committee provided $7,000 in funding to each college and school to highlight TCU’s past, present and future research and creative activities. Parsons saw the funding as the perfect opportunity to develop an innovative idea that began percolating last summer. “I remember discussing my idea with Lane and then asking him, ‘What if?’” said Parsons. “I envisioned creating a dynamic exhibition featuring 150 artists that told TCU’s story through their approach, technique and style.” Parsons researched and compiled resources to develop the exhibition: an alumni list dating to the late 1960s, archival material from the gallery and a thesis on the School of Art’s history from 1873 to 1969 written by Leon Wilson ’55 (MFA ’70). At her desk, Parsons marked up the alumni list and highlighted artists she knew or whose work she thought would be important to include in the exhibition. “With that process, I got to about 80 artists and was surprised I knew that many,” Parsons said. “I then asked Lane and other faculty for their recommendations.” The list quickly grew with Parsons creating criteria to select the artists: • Is the artist producing original work? • Is the artist making an impact in the fine arts? • Is the artist actively involved in the art community where they reside?

Undergraduate student and Curatorial Assistant Alissa Diehnelt worked alongside Parsons to gather the artists’ contact information and invite each of them to participate in the exhibition. “Out of the original list of artists we invited, maybe three people were unable to do it,” Parsons said. Parsons asked each artist to submit three pieces of work, which she carefully reviewed, selecting the one she thought showcased the artist’s depth of talent, either conceptually or through their use of materials. “Some decisions were practical— such as size— while others came from a conversation with the artists to hear their insight and share perspectives,” Parsons said. “As the show grew, I started making connections to the other submitted works.” Parsons also mentored Diehnelt throughout the development of the exhibition in understanding what it is to be a curator and the duty of care to the artwork and the artists. “I wanted our students and alumni to know we are part of their art community,” Parsons said. “They can always lean on us for advice and connections.” A Celebration of the Arts Beginning the first week of March 2023, all 150 artists shipped or dropped off their artwork at Fort Worth Contemporary Arts. Parsons, along with Gallery Manager Kay Seedig, Diehnelt, and a team of gallery attendants and technicians, spent the following week installing the exhibition. Parsons selected the “salon style hang,” a clustering of artwork from floor to ceiling, to display the eclectic collection that ranged in scale and medium from video, sculpture, bronze, oil on canvas, drawing and photography. “I selected to hang the work in this way to create an interesting and engaging experience for our visitors,” Parsons said. “This goes back to the original idea of showcasing a diversity of practices that are still current and tell the story of the fine arts on campus.” Artwork from the TCU Permanent Collection was also featured in the exhibition to fill in the broader story and history of the visual arts. It was part of Parsons’ goal to highlight the little-known collection as a valuable on-campus resource for students. “It was an organic collaboration with the artists to create the exhibition,” Parsons said. “It was wonderful to have students, faculty and alumni join our celebration.” Along with the exhibition, Parsons developed a publication to include images of each artwork and a historical essay on the School of Art sourced from Wilson’s thesis paper. She hopes the publication will serve as a valuable document in the future to showcase the creative identity and community currently found at the School of Art. v

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Learning the Art of Workwear A partnership with Dickies prepares students with the creative and analytical skills to deliver products to today’s consumers

The excited chatter of fashion merchandising students discussing new ideas, comparing designs and drawing sketches filled the product development classroom. Everyone was intently focused on creating their presentations for a unique project presented by Instructor Leslie Browning-Samoni. Last fall, Browning-Samoni challenged the budding designers to select an industry market and develop a workwear line with guidance from mentors at Dickies, a leading apparel brand founded in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1922. “We are honored to partner and collaborate with Dickies,” said Sally Fortenberry, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Fashion Merchandising. “As a vertically integrated company that designs, manufactures and retails its products, Dickies does everything we teach our students.”

PHOTO: MICHELLE WALKER

Students discuss their workwear line with a Dickies mentor.

When she arrived on TCU’s campus in 2019, Browning-Samoni discovered a long-standing partnership between the Department of Fashion Merchandising and Dickies. She decided to keep the tradition going. So she reached out to Corinna Wright, senior design manager and co-archivist at Dickies, to discuss creating a unique, semester-long experience. “Wright was instrumental in bringing the project to life,” Browning-Samoni said. “She is the department’s contact for internships and introduced me to the workwear and fashionwear design teams.” The Dickies team enthusiastically accepted to serve as mentors and guide students through the process until their final presentation week. Each team partnered with two Dickies mentors throughout the semester.

“Workwear is so different from what our students are used to wearing in their daily life,” Browning-Samoni said. “Dickies has an extensive knowledge and understanding of workwear and industry trends that assisted the students.” Bringing a Workwear Line to Life Dickies mentors came at the beginning of the semester for an opening meeting and a presentation on the concept of workwear. They also provided creative insight and recommendations for students to consider when researching and designing for their workwear lines. Browning-Samoni divided her two product development classes into 18 teams to create a workwear line or a sub-brand under the larger Dickies brand. Each team selected an industry of their choice to conduct market research, such as automotive, cruise or airline.

A Unique Partnership Before coming to TCU, Browning-Samoni was an assistant professor in the fashion merchandising program at Philadelphia University, where she facilitated industry collaborations for students to expand their creative abilities and gain the necessary skills for a future career. “Industry partnerships are such a good learning experience for students,” Browning Samoni said. “They can see a project through a professional lens and receive meaningful feedback.”

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FASHION MERCHANDISING SPOTLIGHT

“It was amazing to see the transformation from where students began and to see their fully developed and creative thought process and finished workwear line.” – Corinna Wright , senior design manager and co-archivist at Dickies

PHOTO: MICHELLE WALKER

After developing the proposals, each team partnered with mentors who specialized in or had extensive knowledge of their selected industry. “I wanted to challenge my students to learn how to design for a specific target audience and identify their wants and needs,” Browning-Samoni said. Throughout the semester, the teams met with their Dickies mentors via Zoom to discuss progress and receive feedback on design packets outlining their customer profiles, fabric selections, price structures and more. Students also conducted competitor product shopping to understand appropriate price points and style expectations in their selected market. Finally, students developed inspiration and live storyboards featuring design mockups and fashion drawings of customers wearing the workwear for a capstone presentation. At the end of the semester, Dickies mentors visited the second-floor foyer and meeting room in the Fine Art Building to discuss and score the presentations and meet their teams in person. “This project not only educated me on the process of developing a line for a brand but also reminded me what a powerful group of women can do when they put their heads together,” said senior Mariana Swartz. “It was amazing to see the transformation of where students began and to see their fully developed and creative thought process

PHOTO: SALLY TAMEZ-MARTINEZ

Juniors Mariana Swartz, Kate Vuilleumier, Mia Gundersen and Logan Rose present their storyboard in the Fine Arts Building.

and finished workwear line,” Wright said. “The Dickies mentors very much enjoyed meeting and working with all of the students, and we look forward to a continued partnership.” Browning-Samoni hopes the project and professional mentorship helped build students’ creative and analytical thinking skills to deliver products to today’s consumers. “We could have never reached our full potential without Browning-Samoni’s guidance and encouragement all semester,” Swartz said.

“The Dickies mentors pushed students to expand and explore their design and outlook on the customer,” Browning-Samoni said. “This was the first year of collaboration with the product development class, and I would love to do it next year.” v

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Empowering the Arts The college’s Board of Visitors continues to create a lasting impact on the TCU campus and beyond

PHOTO: GLEN E. ELLMAN

New members must have a keen interest in community involvement and a passion for the fine arts. “A key goal of the BOV is to be more representative and inclusive of the fine arts community in Fort Worth,” Mullins said. “It is essential to shine a light on our exceptional fine arts programs and provide scholarships to talented students,” said board member Stuart Schultz III ’00. “We want students to ultimately graduate and represent the university while earning a world-class education in the process.” Throughout the academic year, the leadership of each academic unit is invited to BOV meetings to share their vision and goals for their respective programs. The board looks to understand how best to support each unit’s goals and identify opportunities, as they prepare students with valuable skills they will need in their future careers. A key initiative is the Fine Arts Gala, a biennial fundraiser to provide opportunities for students to attend master classes, national competitions and the Theatre Senior Showcase in New York City, among others. The inaugural gala chaired by Sullivan and Stevens grossed $104,000 in 2002, and the board and volunteer committee raised more than $450,000 at this year’s gala. The total raised to date in support of the college is $2.61 million. “The Fine Arts Gala is the perfect venue for introducing our outstanding students to those who may not be familiar with our fine arts programs,” said board member Brenda Cline ’82. “The gala is like a pebble thrown into a still pond—it has a ripple effect of generating even greater circles of advocacy, awareness and financial support for the college.” The board is deeply committed to supporting the fine arts on campus and in the broader community alongside Amy Hardison Tully, Teresa Ann Carter King Dean of the College of Fine Arts.

The audience applauds for the TCU Symphony Orchestra during the Fine Arts Gala.

“Time, talent or treasure.” Often said by Scott Sullivan, former dean of the College of Fine Arts, the phrase has become integral to the college’s Board of Visitors (BOV) and its endeavors to ensure the college leaves a lasting impact on the TCU campus and beyond. The board features approximately 35 engaged community members who provide expertise and support to advance the college’s academic reputation and award winning programs. “The goal is to strengthen the college as it evolves while greatly valuing the incredible contributions of time, talent and treasure of our members,” said Michael Mullins, who is entering his third year as the BOV chair. “We have built such a strong bond along the way, with a warm, communal spirit and great sense of fun.” The board also boasts four emerita members, Barbara Cox, Jean Roach, Jane Schlansker and Kathleen Stevens.

“All have been such pillars and greatly contributed to our mission,” said Mullins. A number of board members have served for many years and support the fine arts by providing insightful guidance and spearheading fundraising initiatives. “Membership is a three-year term with options for renewal,” explains Mullins. “This has been a blessing because the dedication has been so great to the college and TCU.” “I have a long history with TCU, starting my freshman year in the marching band,” said Kathleen Stevens ’61, who served as chair from 2001 to 2006. “We are dedicated to sharing our students’ talents and the importance of the College of Fine Arts to our community.” Being selected as a board member requires a vigorous nomination process. The executive committee votes after receiving a list of nominees from current members who believe the candidates will be interested, enthusiastic and willing to serve.

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BOARD OF VISITORS SPOTLIGHT

Fine Arts Board of Visitors * Denotes Executive Committee Members

Emeritus Members Barbara A. Cox Jean W. Roach ’66 Jane E. Schlansker Kathleen B. Stevens ’61 Advisory Members Keith Cerny, Ph.D. President and CEO Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra Eric Lee, Ph.D. Director Kimbell Art Museum Vanessa Logan Director Texas Ballet Theatre Jacques Marquis President and CEO The Cliburn Marla Price, Ph.D. Director Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth Andrew Walker, Ph.D. Director Amon Carter Museum Angela Wilson General and Artistic Director Fort Worth Opera

Michael G. Mullins, Chair Robert Ackerman* Harriet Anton ‘69 Michael Bennett ‘78 Vicki Vinson Cantwell ‘78* Brenda Cline ‘82* Mitzi Davis David Dike ‘82 Carol Winn Dunaway Jill Fortney ‘69 Randall Gideon* John B. Giordano, Jr. ‘93 Joy Ann Havran ‘71 Michelle Tyer Heines ‘91* Ashley House ’09 (RM ’16) Jeanie Huffman Suzanne Levy ’77* Priscilla Martin ’73 Annie Mason ’00 Marsland Moncrief Dana Deison Porter ’83* Stuart G. Schultz, III ’00* Lynda L. Shropshire* Walter E. Steimel, Jr. ’78 Jennifer A. Williamson ’93 Jeff King ‘81 Teresa King*

“The board has been privileged to partner with wonderful deans, including the marvelous addition of Dean Tully,” said Mullins. “She has already made a mark, and we are so impressed with her approach of intently listening to what students, faculty and staff need.” The Board and Dean Tully are excited for the future of the college and its impact in serving the community through arts education and programming. “Our members have an incredible reputation for advocacy,” said Dean Tully. “They are not only passionate supporters of the arts at TCU, but they enthusiastically advocate for our students, faculty and programs in the community. I trust our board to advise us on how we can strengthen our relationships with professional arts organizations to provide students with meaningful and relevant out-of-classroom experiences that will assist them in their careers.” The BOV collaborates with an advisory board to raise awareness of the college in the global community. The advisory board features internationally renowned leaders from: • Amon Carter Museum of American Art • Fort Worth Opera • Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth • Texas Ballet Theater • The Cliburn • The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra • The Kimbell Art Museum “‘Time, talent or treasure’ is a marvelous description because to be a board member means to be involved and uplift the college,” said Mullins. “I have a deep appreciation for the continued commitment, enthusiasm and wisdom of our board members. This board sets a high standard for which we can all be proud.” v

PHOTO: GLEN E. ELLMAN

Guests at the Fine Arts Gala cocktail reception in the Van Cliburn Concert Hall at TCU.

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Reaching New Heights The School of Music successfully returns to the national stage

PHOTO: BRIAN A. WEST

PHOTO: NBRACKENPHOTOGRAPHY

The TCU Percussion ensemble performs for PASIC in the Van Cliburn Concert Hall at TCU.

TCU’s percussion and choral ensembles took center stage at last year’s Percussion Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) in Indianapolis, Indiana, and at Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) in San Antonio, Texas, respectively. These prestigious performance opportunities marked the award-winning School of Music’s return to the national stage after the pandemic. Both ensembles spent the fall semester rehearsing for their respective concerts, preparing to perform in front of an audience of peers, industry professionals and leading artists from around the world. The journey to the main stage required each ensemble to enter a blind audition and submit a collection of unmarked performance recordings with no identifying characteristics. The entries were reviewed by expert committees that selected finalists

based on performance skills and level of musical excellence. Before reapplying for the blind competition, selected groups must wait three years for PASIC and two years for TMEA. Performing at PASIC “Performance at PASIC is the pinnacle accomplishment for any university percussion ensemble,” said Brian A. West, DMA, division chair and professor of percussion at TCU. As a winner of the International Percussion Ensemble Competition, the TCU Percussion Studio performed a showcase concert at PASIC, the world’s largest percussion conference, last November. The four day convention featured educational clinics, competitions, master classes and performances from leading artists in the field. Only three university ensembles are afforded the opportunity each year, with the

TCU Percussion Studio being an invited and featured performer six times over the past 20 years. “Our students get to perform, network and broaden their horizons by being exposed to different types of musicians and music,” said West. West was the first full-time percussion professor when he arrived on TCU’s campus in 2001. He was charged with building the percussion program’s presence on campus and in the international music community. He successfully led the first percussion ensemble to PASIC in 2005. “We are very fortunate to have won multiple times,” West said. “Our students are making memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.” The percussion studio has maintained a superior class of musicians from around the country and internationally. Many

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MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

students who perform at PASIC can also be found performing in the marching band at Horned Frog football games and on the concert stage with the wind symphony, jazz ensemble and symphony orchestra. West designed a robust percussion curriculum for students to gain experience in performance, education, composition, sound engineering and more. Through coursework and class discussions, students prepared for their PASIC showcase concert and mastered valuable skills they will need in their future careers. “Many of our students are pursuing a music education degree, and we’re teaching them how to be performers, teachers and composers,” said West. The Percussion Studio PASIC program included five world premieres of newly commissioned pieces written specifically for TCU, including “Thy Kingdom Come” by Jacob Remington ’09 and “Cloud Dance” by senior Harrison Collins. The ensemble also performed “Adelant” by Ivan Mendoza ’23, In February, the TCU Concert Chorale performed at TMEA, the largest music conference in North America that draws in over 26,000 attendees each year. Invited performers must submit a 50-minute proposed repertoire program, with only two spots for university ensembles each year. Christopher Aspaas, Ph.D., associate professor and director of choral activities, previously led the ensemble to TMEA in 2018, the first year the group was eligible to perform since his arrival at TCU. Aspaas took a five-year break to develop a new repertoire for the blind audition last May and received news the ensemble was an invited performer the following month. The group spent the fall semester rehearsing and developing an engaging program to perform at the conference. which premiered in Taiwan. On Stage at TMEA

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER ASPAAS

The TCU Concert Chorale performs on stage at TMEA. “I had a specific desire to be a storyteller through the program,” Aspaas said. Aspaas developed the program to feature composers from marginalized communities and innovative repertoire, including “Save Me, O Go” by Patrick Vu ’22 and “Snow Dance for the Dead” by Sean Doherty, with his piece addressing the violence and oppression inflicted during the Russian Civil War in the early 20th century. “As a recent alumnus, I am very honored to have been a part of their moving concert program in this way,” Vu said. “It was one of the most moving performances I have experienced, and I am truly grateful and immensely proud to be part of the TCU community.” Students explored new approaches to interpreting the selected pieces and developing their musicianship. “The focus was to create a pedagogically sound program for our students, so we are not just putting together a show but learning through each piece,” Aspaas said.

In February, the ensemble headed to San Antonio to perform at TMEA. At the end of the first set, over 2,000 audience members sat in awed silence. “That was one of those times as a performer that there was a strange and wonderful energy between us and the audience,” Aspaas said. “We all knew something special was happening and were truly immersed in the experience.” “Attending TMEA was a unique and memorable experience that I will never forget,” said Eduardo Guerrero, a junior music education major. Aspaas hopes this unique opportunity will be a learning tool for his students to develop as professional artists and gain a deeper understanding of performing and interpreting music. “Performing in front of hundreds of colleagues was a beautiful reminder of why we make music,” said Amber Bowen, a vocal music education senior. “It was beautiful to experience a moment that proved just how clearly music speaks.” v

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A Triumphant Return Renowned Dance Theatre of Harlem returns to campus almost 50 years after its first residency in 1975

PHOTO COURTESY: DANCE THEATRE OF HARLEM | CREDIT: RACHEL NEVILLE

serving in leadership roles at DTH and kept in close touch with colleagues there. “The opportunity to make lifelong friendships and travel the world is high on the list of what I value, love and remember about DTH,” reminisced Keith Saunders. “These experiences are priceless. Indescribable. You can’t put a value on them.” Anna Glass, DTH executive director, reached out to ask about opportunities to collaborate with TCU’s SCCDance, explaining the company would be performing in Texas in early 2023 and would be available for several days. The couple eagerly accepted the opportunity, seeing it as a valuable chance to share with SCCDance students the rigor and expectations of joining a professional dance company. “Their presence gave our students a chance to understand the shoulders they stand on and the ways in which dance can provide a voice, presence and power.” – SCCDance Student

Dance Theatre of Harlem returned for a two-day residency hosted by the School for Classical & Contemporary Dance.

Globally renowned ballet company Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) was founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell, an internationally acclaimed artist, and the first African American principal dancer to join the New York City Ballet in 1955. Mitchell established the company to challenge the industry’s exclusive practices and pioneer multifaceted programs to educate and celebrate the belief that dance belongs to everyone. Nearly 50 years after its first residency on campus, DTH returned to TCU for a two-day education program hosted by the School for Classical & Contemporary Dance (SCCDance). The program featured community events, open rehearsals and a panel discussion with the company’s executive and artistic leaders.

“DTH is both history and currency,” said SCCDance Director and Professor Elizabeth Gillaspy. “Their presence gave our students a chance to understand the shoulders they stand on and the ways in which dance can provide a voice, presence and power.” Pursuing Artistic Excellence “Do you have the commitment and capacity to achieve excellence?” asked Keith Saunders, associate professor of professional practice. “If you met those demands, you would earn a place in the Dance Theatre of Harlem.” Saunders and Adjunct Professor Kellye Saunders both played pivotal roles in bringing the residency to TCU. Before arriving on campus, the couple had extensive experience performing and

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DANCE SPOTLIGHT

“The residency was a learning tool to develop as a professional artist and expand possible career avenues,” said Keith Saunders. “Students interacted closely with a professional organization to understand what it takes to maintain a reputation for excellence.” During the residency, company members visited dance programs at three Fort Worth high schools to share their expertise and perspective with students through master classes and career conversations. DTH members also hosted in-depth open rehearsals and workshops for SCCDance students to strengthen their techniques and develop a point of view as artists.

PHOTO: GLEN E. ELLMAN

Students participate in “Dancing in the Street,” a community event featuring a soul train line with Dance Theatre of Harlem members. with excitement, passion, vigor and a new buoyancy I have not seen before.”

“Everything required something a little bit different from you,” said Kellye Saunders on her career at the company. “Every choreographer required more than just your body. You had to bring a different thought process to each work.” “As a senior watching DTH in the rehearsal, I was awed by the beauty of their dancing and also reminded of who I want to be in just a few months when auditioning for professional companies,” said a SCCDance senior. “Listening and learning from the company members and executive leaders profoundly impacted both my TCU experience and my life.” Moderated by Keith Saunders, the panel discussion explored the creation of DTH and Mitchell’s pursuit of creative expression, before transitioning to the present generation of DTH members continuing his mission. “The impact the DTH members had on our community was incredible,” said a SCCDance student. “I saw my peers filled

The residency closed with “Dancing in the Street,” a community event for participants to strut their talent down a soul train line and learn a section of the company’s ballet “Return,” choreographed by Artistic Director Robert Garland. “I knew the residency would deeply impact our entire community on many levels, and for DTH to be in our building on our campus was heart filling,” said Gillaspy. “I’m so grateful for the support of the College of Fine Arts, the provost’s office, generous private donors and everyone who understands the value of this experience. It was truly inspiring.” v

PHOTO COURTESY: DANCE THEATRE OF HARLEM | CREDIT: RACHEL NEVILLE

FINE ARTS NEWS FALL 2023 15

New Faculty We are proud to welcome several new full-time faculty members for the 2023-24 academic year.

Department of Design

School of Music

Allen Cordingley, MM Assistant Professor of Saxophone and Director of Jazz Studies

Jennifer Cadieux Kimbrel, MFA Assistant Professor of Design

Rhonda Wolverton, MFA Assistant Professor of Design

Clay Garrett, DMA Assistant Professor of Professional Practice in Tuba and Euphonium

School for Classical & Contemporary Dance

Marla Ringel, DMA Assistant Professor of Music Education and Assistant Director of Choral Activities

Gabe Speiller, MFA Visiting Lecturer

Chad Jung Assistant Professor of Professional Practice in Dance Lighting Design and Production

Enrico Elisi, DMA Associate Professor of Piano and the Harold D. and Imogene Herndon Professorship in Music

Department of Theatre

Gwendolyn Alfred, DMA Assistant Professor of Voice

Aimee Hurst Bozarth, MM Assistant Professor of Professional Practice

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FACULTY & STAFF SPOTLIGHT

School of Music H. Joseph Butler, DMA Professor of Organ & University Organist Faculty & Staff Farewells

School for Classical & Contemporary Dance Susan Austin Costume Shop Supervisor

Austin retired at the end of August 2023 after 10 years with the SCCDance. Some of her proudest moments include crafting unique costumes and preparing students for their annual DanceTCU concerts. During her TCU career, she enjoyed bringing joy to each dancer and participating in wonderful collaborations with the community. In

Butler retired in May 2023 after 27 years with the School of Music. Among his contributions to TCU, Butler served as the associate dean of the College of Fine Arts for 20 years and won the Chancellor’s Award for Distinguished Achievement as a Creative Teacher and Scholar in 2017. His students have distinguished themselves in performance

addition to her teaching and creative activities, Austin spent over 20 years teaching ballet classes and choreographing musicals and ballet recitals in Fort Worth. Roma Flowers Associate Professor of Professional Practice

competitions, full-time music positions and admission to prestigious graduate programs throughout the country. In addition to his teaching activities, he has published articles in scholarly journals and has performed in Canada, China, Hong Kong and the United Kingdom. Joseph Eckert, MM Professor of Saxophone & Director of Jazz Studies

Flowers retired in September 2023 after 18 years in the SCCDance. Bringing a wealth of industry knowledge from her 20-year professional design career in New York City, Flowers taught dance production and dance lighting and introduced a screendance course to the SCCDance curriculum. She received the prestigious Notch “Knight of Illumination” award for “A Bon Coeur,” an evening-length

Eckert retired in September 2023 after 16 years with the School of Music. His teaching career spans more than 40 years at institutions including TCU, Shenandoah Conservatory and West Virginia University. Among his many contributions to TCU, Eckert helped build the saxophone studio and invited musical icons to the TCU Jazz Festival as

dance work that saw early development in Studio B of Erma Lowe Hall. Flowers plans to continue her artistic journey through professional lighting, projection design and dance filmmaking. Department of Design Bill Galyean Instructor of Design

director of jazz studies. During his career, he performed as the lead alto saxophonist and later music director for the U.S. Air Force Band’s Airmen of Note. Eckert’s retirement plans include relocating to Florida with his wife to spend more time with family and continue his career as a freelance musician and education consultant. John Owings, MM Herndon Professor of Music & Division Chair of Piano

Galyean started a new adventure in September 2023 after 17 years in the Department of Design. His teaching career spans more than 20 years at TCU and Southern Methodist University, following a 30-year career in the advertising industry. Galyean taught foundation and upper division classes, including package, publication and advertising design along

Owings retired in August 2023 after 33 years with the School of Music. He received the Chancellor’s Award for Distinguished Creative Activity in 1993 for his performances of the 32 Beethoven piano sonatas. Throughout his career, he performed in many prestigious concert halls worldwide, including Carnegie Hall with the TCU ensemble Trio Con Brio and

with a class that was by invitation only. He says he will greatly miss the wonderful culture, faculty and magic found in the TCU classrooms.

the magnificent Van Cliburn Concert Hall at TCU during its opening last year. His final two performances at TCU took place there this year and included an all-Beethoven chamber music recital and a solo recital.

FINE ARTS NEWS FALL 2023 17

Conversations for Community Connection The inaugural Black History Designer Symposium celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion

PHOTO: ELLIS KIRKDOFFER

Panelists Nixon Exantus, Paige Monece and Danika Leeks in the Brown-Lupton University Union Auditorium.

Instructor of Design Tamara Rice stood in the Brown-Lupton University Union (BLUU) and raised a question to a panel of five local designers. “How can we as leaders and educators create equitable solutions to introduce design to students?” asked Rice. Over 90 high school students and members of the TCU community listened intently to their responses. The panelists unanimously agreed that community partnerships and initiatives, such as student mentorship programs, were essential to creating an equitable future in design. “Hearing the perspectives and experiences of my fellow panelists was both inspiring and humbling, and it reinforced the need for continued efforts to create a more inclusive creative industry for all,” said panelist KaDavien Baylor. The panel conversation was part of the “Black History Designer Symposium:

A Seat at the Table,” hosted by the Department of Design. The inaugural event celebrated representation, inclusion and diversity with International Interior Design Association (IIDA) CEO Cheryl Durst as its keynote speaker. “As a Black designer, I have walked into many spaces and felt like I never had a seat at the table,” Rice said. “A seat at the table means to be truly seen and heard; a seat at the table is freedom.” Rice brought the dynamic event to campus with support from the interior design program’s faculty and staff, including Professor and Program Coordinator Amy Roehl and Instructor Myosha Maston. High schools across the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex were personally invited to introduce marginalized students to learn and explore opportunities in the design field. Rice also contacted five industry professionals to join the community conversation and share their creative insight:

• Kadavien Baylor , multidisciplinary artist • Nixon Exantus , vice president of architecture firm RS&H • Danika Leeks , founder and president of Danika & Company • Halima McWilliams , associate principal and director of human resources operations and culture at Corgan • Paige Monece , freelance designer “What better place to start than your community?” asked Rice. “Going local speaks to the challenges many Black designers encounter and facilitates conversations on how we might better communicate and connect.” The symposium was created to enable discussion and cultivate an environment where every person feels they belong and whose voice is accepted. The panelists led an intimate conversation on career challenges, including tokenism, imposter syndrome and

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DESIGN SPOTLIGHT

“The word that stands out to me is ‘belonging.’ I think many of the high school students never felt like they belonged but realized they have a place in the design community.” – David Elizalde , Chair, Department of Design

PHOTO: ELLIS KIRKDOFFER

the importance of creating ethical leaders on campus and in spaces outside the education system. “It’s quite satisfying to know that the topics we discussed will assist future students, whether they stay in the design field or move elsewhere,” said Monece. “This will also help them navigate their daily lives and careers with greater ease.” After the panel discussion, students eagerly approached the stage to meet the designers and discuss career possibilities. “I think something clicked in the high school students’ minds from seeing and hearing stories of people that looked like them,” Rice said. “I had conversations with several of the students who were very curious about the architecture and design profession, but were unsure if that was the field for them,” said Exantus. “I let them know if it was possible for me, it’s also possible for them. That’s one of the reasons why representation matters.” The students then visited the TCU Fine Arts Building to participate in innovative workshops, including a scavenger hunt and a 3D building block activity, for a comprehensive introduction to the fine arts. Department of Design faculty and students led the workshops to serve as a resource and share their experiences in the program. “I was glad to help in any way and really enjoyed interacting with all the high school students,” Maston said. “The event was a great success, and we likely gained a few new Horned Frogs.”

Cheryl Durst meets students who are members of TCU’s International Interior Design Association.

Students also listened to presentations on fashion merchandising, interior design and graphic design led by instructors and department chairs. “The word that stands out to me is ‘belonging,’” said David Elizalde, the department of design chair. “I think many of the high school students never felt like they belonged but realized they have a place in the design community.” A few weeks after the symposium, Rice received a phone call from panelist Danika Leeks, who described her experience participating in the event. “She was moved to tears and said, ‘As a Black woman and designer, I felt so safe and saw

that I could really share my story in that space,’” recalled Rice. “Having that reaction meant everything to me and was overwhelming in a beautiful way.” Rice hopes the symposium inspired students and audience members to continue the conversation and push diversity and inclusion throughout our design industries and communities. “A Seat at the Table might look different next year, but the goal will be the same,” Rice said. “To uplift the voices of Black designers in our community and facilitate this conversation beyond Black History Month.” v

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