Geometric Cow

Geometric Cow

Regan Konz, M1, Class of 2027

 

This is one of my first ceramics projects and was done using a slab technique to make the form and masking to paint the surface. Spending time with ceramics was an outlet for me to de-stress during a busy senior semester and medical school interview season and I, of course, had to create a piece involving a cow which is my favorite animal. This guy truly brings me joy and is probably my favorite thing I have made despite his imperfections from me being completely new to the hobby.

Battle Within

Battle Within

Mandeep Kaur, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department PhD Candidate, 5th Year

This is a painting of a battlefield where the enemy is within, war is against our own obstructing thoughts and victory is the wisdom that sets you (the horse) free.

Red Vase

Red Vase

Anna Trofimoff, M2, Class of 2026

Throughout medical school, pottery became a source of self-care for me. I am not a pottery expert and am lucky to get something off the wheel. However, I made wonderful memories with friends trying to create different pieces, got a well-deserved break from studying, and made a few things I’m really proud of- like this red vase here. I highly recommend pottery and the KC Clay Guild to anyone hoping to pursue pottery as a fun hobby!

tȟatȟáŋka

Riley Burghart, Nurse Anesthesia Class of 2026

In many Indian communities, the Buffalo has long been a symbol of self-sacrifice; it gives until there is nothing left. The buffalo made life possible for many by providing warmth, nutrients, tools – every part seen as valuable and used for a unique purpose. To me, the buffalo serves as a reminder to give all that we have for others until there is nothing left to give. As you walk the halls, rooms, and sidewalks of KUMC and beyond, I hope this piece reminds you of your own extraordinary value and unique mission to provide for and serve all that you are able.

Zoo Photography

Zoo Photography

Lauren Edwards, Masters of Public Health, Class of 2024

Zoo photography is a popular genre of wildlife photography that involves capturing images of animals in captivity. This experience has provided me with an opportunity to observe and photograph a wide range of species up close, without the challenges of venturing into the wild. Capturing the moment is an important aspect of zoo photography, and it requires a keen eye and a quick trigger finger. As a photographer with a passion for capturing the moment, I understand the importance of being patient and ready to capture a perfect shot at any given moment. Whether I’m photographing a majestic elephant or a playful monkey, my passion for capturing the moment can help create beautiful images that tell a story.

“Saving Hope” – Oil on stretched canvas

“Saving Hope” – Oil on stretched canvas

Viktoria Sterkhova, School of Public Health Professions

I took up painting again during the pandemic, a hobby I loved in high school. It has been a profound outlet for my creativity, and it gives me a moment to relax and be present. My favorite part of painting is the process- playing around with the colors, blending the paints, and troubleshooting my next moves.

The concept of light is a common theme throughout my paintings. This time, I was inspired by Pinterest mason jars full of fairy lights. It is such a simple and comforting concept. To me, it evokes feelings of hope and wonder, like the giddy feeling you get when looking at Christmas lights or watching fireflies twinkle in June.

Soul Search – Finding Order in Chaos

Soul Search – Finding Order in Chaos

Mandeep Kaur, PhD Candidate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 5th Year

This piece of art is very close to my heart. I made it when I joined the graduate school. When everything seemed overwhelming including the classes, the lab research, being new to US and its culture, I painted all my mind out on canvas and I call it “Finding order in chaos”.

A Gardener’s Delightful Season

A Gardener’s Delightful Season

Tuqa Asedi, M2, Class of 2025

I started gardening a couple years ago after I decided to finally pursue my dream of having a rose garden. The rose garden is still in progress, but I have had so much fun along the way. This year, I started taking photos of the flowers that I grew. It was a productive year; I had so many beautiful Zéphirine Drouhin rose blooms that I made delicious rose jam for my family! My Stargazer Lilies made a stunning and fragrant centerpiece on the coffee table. Some of my Zinnia seedlings died from the heat wave, some were eaten by bunnies, but the ones that survived had bright, vibrant colors. I bought a new bare-root climbing rose in the spring, and I was pleasantly surprised to see it bloom this year, its first year, which can be uncommon. I also saw a hummingbird drink out of my Petunia basket on multiple occasions. I have never seen one in real life and I could not contain my excitement! Other beautiful creatures that I got to see were different types of birds, a hummingbird hawk moth, and a neon-green praying mantis that lived on my Perfume Delight rose. Overall, it was a joyful experience and I am super excited for the next season. But for now, I am busy collecting the fallen autumn leaves to make food for next year’s flowers.

Continue reading “A Gardener’s Delightful Season”

Picnic Under the Weeping Willow

Picnic Under the Weeping Willow

Sricharan Yadali, M2, Class of 2025

Taken at Loose Park, Kansas City. To me, this photograph represents a scene of pure serenity. I am particularly drawn to capturing scenes that place people in harmony and at ease with their surroundings, whether that be in nature or in the urban core of the city. I very much enjoy using film to instill an almost meditative, intentional focus to my photography. I use it to achieve a dream-like quality, like that of recalling a fond memory. I made this photograph using Fuji Superia 400 film, metered at 200 ISO, though my trusty Konica Hexar AF with 35 mm f/2 lens.

Continue reading “Picnic Under the Weeping Willow”

Hibernal Reflection

Hibernal Reflection

Trenton Edwards, M2, Class of 2025

Soon, our northern hemisphere will enter into Winter. The sun sets earlier and its warmth fades, sending trees, bears, and countless others into hibernation. In doing so, these creatures can recover from a year’s worth of wear and tear and rest in anticipation of Spring’s growth. As we too retreat indoors, we are also given a chance to look inward; an opportunity to reevaluate our relationship with others, with nature, and with ourself. Winter provides space to think about what has been left behind and what lays ahead. It gives us a chance to be more intentional about those we spend time with, and to witness those who choose to spend their time with us. Though this season may evoke feelings of loss and isolation, it is time spent alone which allows for reflection and growth. As we approach our annual chrysalis, may we put in the work necessary to emerge reborn.

Continue reading “Hibernal Reflection”