Kent State student artists sold multiple pieces of art to spread their love of what art truly means on Feb. 10. Many students like junior fashion merchandising major Mandolin Arnett displayed her work for others to view and purchase.

“I was really nervous but excited going to sleep last night,” Arnett said. “I’m actually getting [my name] out there.”

Arnett showcased her pieces for the first art time which she said has impacted her in many ways.

“People have been buying my [work] and it has been really inspiring,” Arnett said. “It gets me more excited about jewelry that people really like my [work].”

Not only have first-time artists benefited from art sales, but artists who have been promoting their work throughout the years

have learned through their experience. Senior fashion design major Sam Martin believes that these art sales have helped her educationally and professionally.

“I have definitely learned my audience,” Martin said. “It has been eye-opening seeing people liking my work.”

Martin is motivated to “continue to put herself out there after graduation” because of the success she has had.

Graduate student Bee Reid said the art sale contributed to success not only for student artists but it created success for the turnout of the sale.

“We have been selling a ton of work throughout the day,” Reid said. “For the jewelry club specifically, we have over 10 people selling. That’s the highest turnout I have seen since I have been [at Kent State].”

This turnout does not only involve Kent State faculty and students, but it also reaches out to those who are not part of the university community.

“This art sale helps bring in people who are outside of the Kent campus,” Reid said. “With the advertising and promoting of [the art sale], we have people who aren’t artists with Kent coming and supporting us.”

With all the intimidation that an art sale brings, Reid encourages artists who want to sell their own art to the community.

“You just got to go for it,” Reid said. “It can be really scary and vulnerable putting yourself out there, but you never know if you don’t try.”

Danielle Stehle is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].