Grace College students and faculty showcase 'Elements of Grace' at Monroe Community Church Art Show

WINONA LAKE, Ind. - Grace College announced 78 works of art by 19 students and three faculty members will exhibit at Monroe Community Church Art Show until July 13.

Monroe Community Church, located at 1020 Monroe Ave. NW in Grand Rapids, MI, will have its gallery open to the public Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and during Sunday services from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

The exhibit’s theme is “Elements of Grace” and features pieces corresponding to the natural elements, earth, wind, fire, and water.

“It is a privilege and an honor to be invited to participate in this exhibit,” said Dr. Kim M. Reiff, co-dean of the School of Arts and Humanities and chair of the Grace College Department of Visual and Performing Arts and professor of visual art and design. “The students’ work will have significant exposure in Grand Rapids, a city known for promoting the arts.”

The pieces include students’ photography, drawings, paintings, and ceramics.

Organizers say some artworks have been pulled from students’ existing portfolios while others have been produced for the event.

Grace College says its association with Monroe Community Church started in fall of 2023.

Reiff’s artwork was displayed at the venue as part of an art competition when Steve Fridsma, MCC’s art ministry leader, invited Grace College faculty and students to showcase their artwork in the church’s gallery space.

“The pieces in this exhibit demonstrate not only artistic skill but also wit and cleverness,” said Fridsma. “The show adorns and complements our building in a meaningful way. Our congregation and our guests will be blessed for the duration of this exhibit, and we are already discussing doing this again in the future.”

In addition to the weekly visiting hours, organizers say the show can be viewed during the Avenue for the Arts’ Third Thursdays.

The next one is Thursday, June 20, from 6 to 9 p.m.

“Grand Rapids is known for its promotion of the arts,” said Reiff. “Potentially thousands of people will see Grace students’ work during its exhibition run. It’s an incredible opportunity for our students.”

Grace College says the goal of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts is to equip graduates to communicate visually, possess professional skills, and to analyze works from historical and contemporary cultural perspectives.

Grace College adds students learn to demonstrate excellence in creative work that serves their calling as artists, Christians, and professionals.