Louisiana graduate student awarded Parker art scholarship

Grayson, Louisiana, graduate student Korey Burns is this year's recipient of the Gary Parker Art Scholarship.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas - The Friends of the Visual Arts at Stephen F. Austin State University have selected Grayson, Louisiana, graduate student Korey Burns as this year's recipient of the Gary Parker Art Scholarship.

The SFA Friends of the Visual Arts established the scholarship in honor of the retired SFA School of Art faculty member who was employed at the university for 31 years. Parker not only taught courses but also directed the school's Summer Art Academy program for children and served as the gallery preparator.

The FVA has established scholarships in the name of retiring SFA School of Art professors who were employed in the School of Art for minimum of 10 years before retirement and who contributed in a significant way to the mission of the Friends of the Visual Arts board and its fundraising activities, such as consistently donating art for fundraisers, by providing monetary assistance, or by serving on FVA committees or board.

Lauren Selden, assistant professor of metal/jewelry in the School of Art, nominated Burns for the award. She said Burns "illustrates a strong work ethic, which allows her to solve problems, learn about new materials and set higher goals for herself and those around her."

A student of Selden's since 2014, Burns has assisted in teaching an art metals introductory class.

"I have witnessed her giving demonstrations and working individually with students," Selden wrote in her nomination letter. "This past semester, she has also balanced a busy schedule assisting in the metals studio, working with students in open shop, and completing a challenging course schedule. These organizational skills will serve her well in her professional endeavors.

"Korey has continued to grow when exploring content behind her artwork," Selden added. "I have been especially impressed in the past year to see her as a permanent fixture in the studio - always working."

The SFA Friends of the Visual Arts is made up of community members who support the arts in East Texas and provide monetary assistance to students enrolling in the School of Art by conducting fundraisers, such as the annual 12 x 12 event every July.