Community members support OPSU artists
 All smiles in their formal attire, the artists pause for a photo following the success of the 8th Annual Paul Farrell Memorial Art Auction. - Michal Stachowski photo |
The eighth annual Paul Farrell Memorial Art Auction held Friday raised nearly $16,000 for Oklahoma Panhandle State University scholarships. A record crowd enjoyed the artwork on display created by OPSU art students, faculty members, and alumni.
With the money raised, the Art Department is close to reaching its goal of $100,000 to fully endow a scholarship. Half of the proceeds from the auction benefit that scholarship and help fund other Images Art Club events and the other half benefits the artists in the form of scholarships.
Chair of the Art Department, Bryon Test, said, “We’re gratified to have so many people and local businesses supporting our art. I would particularly like to thank Travis Hathcote, the Guymon Band Director, Wal-Mart, United, Panhandle Printing and KKBS for encouraging us,” said Bryon Test, chair of the art department.
He also mentioned Chuck Alexander, Guymon High School graduate and professional musician now living in Amarillo. Alexander leads the vocals in two Amarillo bands – Insufficient Funds, a group that plays classic rock, and The Martinis, a jazz group.
Yvonne Sangster, an OPSU graduate and current Art Instructor, created the top-seller, a pastel featuring a Native American child. Hector Cobos contributed pottery, two watercolors, and two photographs, and he was the student with the most in sales.
With little time to rest, the art students have already been hard at work on their next event. The 10th annual Art Jubilee, set for April 9, hosts hundreds of area high school students. The experience provides a learning opportunity and a chance to have their original art judged by professionals. For more information about the OPSU Art Department, contact Test at 349-1480.