A discussion unfolded this past week at the Gallery publication’s very first meeting, revealing exactly what the publication stands for. The publication features work from Westby while also showcasing art from creators all over campus, allowing a broader perspective of the university’s artistic side. Beyond serving as a platform where students can become published artists, it gives them the opportunity to get hands-on experience in design, publication, and the process of creating the signature art-focused book that is done every year. 

Vice President, senior Alex Majer feels that it is imperative to grow the community within the publication, spreading the word for the need for new members. Emphasizing the need for new members since most will be graduating this year, Majer hopes to host more events this year. 

“I would love to do more events this year and grow our community. I know last year we did an Easter Egg Hunt, and I would love to do a Halloween event this year. As well as definitely give back to the art community from these events,” said Majer.

The publication strives for a flexible and artistic environment, as the meeting proceeded with Senior President Viviana Nguyen, specifying positions that students can obtain. Starting with designers’ roles, playing a key role in shaping the artbook’s signature look, while the communications team manages and organizes artists’ submissions. Photographers ensure students’ artwork is well captured for the art book and well represented.

The president emphasized her goal of producing a standout art book that surpasses previous years. 

“I feel like this is a great opportunity to truly make a difference with the annual book we create. It also gives everyone the opportunity to have an artistic interest, whether they are art majors or not. Along with really having fun through the process of it all,” said Nguyen. 

There was also a discussion of how the Gallery Publication is against Artificial Intelligence (AI), as it takes away the true creativity of art as a whole. The members agreed that they are opposed to AI-generated art for the mere fact that it does not have any rawness to the human creation. Emphasizing the importance of authenticity, creativity, and why it is imperative not to lose the human touch. 

Junior Emily Szemiot, and current secretary of the publication, expressed how hard it is for current artists to deal with the rise of AI. 

“It’s taken a lot of careers, and I feel we as a publication want to defy that and create real handmade art. So displaying and publishing it is very important to us. It shows people that there are still real artists out there and not just computers, that raw sense of authenticity means everything,” said Szemiot. 

Members also made note of art being all around us in our day-to-day lives. With a united vision, the publication aims to create more than just the annual art book. As junior and treasurer, Max Kaplan concluded with how AI can be used as a tool with pros and cons; ultimately, it isn’t going anywhere, and the publication hopes to create a meaningful way to express students’ creativity and to further preserve the value of human-made art.  

“We don’t want to see any AI in the artbook, although we know AI likely isn’t going away; it’s become a tool for people to use. However, using it solely is something we don’t accept; it has its pros and cons but when used right, AI can be used as a helpful tool when used for generating inspiration or to put your own artwork into it with one’s artistic vision,” said Kaplan. 

From encouraging collaboration, rejecting shortcuts from AI, and welcoming the unique artistic community of students, the art publication serves as an outlet for students who have a desire to unleash their artistic ability. 

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