A School of Art painting class partnered with Pendergrass Library this fall for a unique learning experience. Students in ARTA 214: Painting 2 selected seeds from the Seed Library housed at Pendergrass Library as part of a class project that began with planting a seed and concludes with an exhibition of student artworks.

The resulting paintings will be on display at Hodges Library, November 15 through December 2, on the second floor (outside Starbucks). An opening reception will take place in the exhibit area on Tuesday, November 19, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

As part of the project, students received instruction in conducting library research. Associate Professor of Art Mary Laube said this project will teach students what visual research can look like and how artists engage in research outside of the studio to inform their creative projects.

Observing the progress of their small gardens as well as a tour of the UT Gardens served as inspiration for their final painting assignments.

The Seed Library, established in 2019, offers free vegetable, herb, fruit, and flower seed packets along with information about gardening activities. The seed packets, housed in vintage card catalogs, are available to UT students, staff, and faculty at Pendergrass and Hodges Libraries.

The Libraries’ Seed Library initiative empowers students to lead healthy, sustainable lifestyles, while facilitating food access, community connections, and enhancement of the student experience.