Dordt University senior art students to present final exhibitions and group reception on April 24

Dordt University’s Art Gallery Program will host a group artist reception for graduating seniors Libbie Rettinger, Jakob Kamp, and Abigail Fortune on Thursday, April 24.

Rettinger will present her artist talk at 7 p.m., followed by Kamp at 7:30 p.m. and Fortune at 8 p.m. Each artist will present in their respective exhibit locations. Light refreshments will be served on the lower level of the Campus Center, between the Academic Enrichment Center and Student Government offices.

Rettinger’s exhibition, “Highlight to Hope,” will be on display in the Academic Enrichment Center on the lower level of the Campus Center. Rettinger, a fine arts studio and psychology major from Storm Lake, Iowa, says her artistic practice is rooted in “faith, personal experience, and a commitment to creating spaces that nurture the human spirit.” A reflective exploration of the role of creative expression in healing, resilience, and community, this exhibit will invite viewers to slow down, reflect, and engage with the present moment.

Kamp, a fine arts studio and theatre arts major from Orange City, Iowa, presents “Metzudah,” a collection of paintings on canvas, wood panels, and mixed media surfaces, on display at the Hulst Library’s upper level. The exhibit’s title, meaning “refuge” or “fortress” in Hebrew, reflects Kamp’s exploration of sacred and personal spaces of refuge. “Drawing parallels between the origins of faith, sanctified spaces, as well as personal experience gained throughout my life, I use scale and color to present cathedrals, cloisters, and open spaces,” says Kamp.

Fortune, a fine arts studio major from Belvidere, South Dakota, presents “Importance of Imperfection,” an exhibition located on the lower level of the Campus Center outside the Student Government office. Influenced by the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, Fortune’s work explores themes of restoration, reverence, and environmental stewardship. “We have a biblical calling to steward our world, to use our gifts to bless the land and each other,” says Fortune. “In this space I encourage you to interact with it, live with it, and appreciate the craftsmanship it takes to make such a place beautiful.”

About Dordt University

As an institution of higher education committed to a Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is consistently recognized as a top university byThe Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.