Modern Light
Last night, APSU’s art department celebrated the opening of Modern Light, the new exhibit of photographs from the collection donated to the university by Jim and Nan Robertson. Jim and Nan were on hand for the opening, and Jim, in fact, gave those present insight into some of the stories behind the pieces in the exhibit and the artists who created them. APSU faculty member Susan Bryant is the curator for the exhibit, and she was obviously thrilled to see the university acquire some of the very pieces she discusses with her students in class.
I mentioned to those present that Jim and Nan have discovered the secret of “high touch” generosity. They realized that the collection they wanted to give to a university would have more impact at an institution such as Austin Peay, rather than at a larger institution with more resources, where the collection might have simply taken its place along side many others. At Austin Peay, the works they so generously donated to the university will have a tangible impact on the lives of our students. We don’t simply plan to store them in some well-guarded vault, but to use them actively in the instruction of students.
It was a fine evening, centered around a great and generous gift to the university, and to a couple who are wonderful new additions to the Austin Peay community. Welcome Jim and Nan, and thank you!
