College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

On the Heels of Previewing Her Debut EP, A CVPA Alum Brings a Crown to George Mason

Emily Schneider — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 15:19:08 +0000

On the Heels of Previewing Her Debut EP, A CVPA Alum Brings a Crown to George Mason Emily Schneider Tue, 07/16/2024 - 11:19

In This Story

Carlehr Swanson

Prof. James Carroll

Dr. Darden Purcell

It’s safe to say that this is a banner year for ��AV College of Visual and Performing Arts alumna Carlehr Swanson. On February 24, 2024, Swanson returned to George Mason’s Fairfax Campus to perform an album preview concert for her upcoming EP, “Growing Pains.” Then, on June 29, Swanson was officially crowned Miss Virginia 2024.

Swanson poses for an official portrait after being crowned Miss Virginia 2024 on June 29.

Speaking to a reporter from WDBJ in Roanoke, Virginia, the day after her crowning as Miss Virginia, Swanson shared that she’s been a participant in the pageant organization for 10 years. Remarking that she found the company of the other participants and their community service commitments to be truly inspiring and one of her favorite parts of the Miss Virginia organization, Swanson discussed her own community service initiative, which began in eighth grade.

After an injury, Swanson’s beloved grandmother was recovering in a rehabilitation center, where Swanson would visit and perform to help lift her grandmother’s spirits. As more and more patients from the center began to gather for these impromptu concerts, Swanson began inviting friends and classmates to join her for these events, to provide an even more engaging experience for the residents. Inspired by the power of music to build community, express deep emotions, and support healing, Swanson founded “Music is Unity” an organization dedicated to spreading musical joy through free performances at schools and nursing homes.

“Music has always been something really close to my heart, and I found that during hard times in my life, music had been that positive outlet for me,” said Swanson. As part of her coming year of Miss Virginia responsibilities, Swanson hopes to start new “Music Is Unity” clubs and initiatives in schools across Virginia, empowering students to share the transformative power of music, creating connections, and supporting their communities.

Now a third year PhD student at the University of Virginia, Swanson’s time at George Mason helped to set the stage for her continued growth and success as a performer, speaker, and entrepreneur. As a student of Darden Purcell, the director of Jazz Studies in the Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music, Swanson explored advanced vocal techniques and built upon her already impressive talents, performing with the talented student ensembles led by Dr. Purcell.

Even after Swanson graduated from George Mason, she maintained close ties with her alma mater. Her new EP was partly funded by her win of the 2023 Young Alumni Creative Development Award from the Young Alumni Commissioning Project, an initiative of George Mason’s College of Visual and Performing Arts. Recipients of certain awards from the project are afforded a fully produced event in a George Mason venue to launch their work, in addition to funding to support their project.

Jim Carroll (L) led the pre-show conversation with Swanson prior to her concert in Harris Theater in February 2024. Photo by Emily Schneider

At Swanson’s concert in February, composer, performer, and George Mason professor Jim Carroll led a pre-show conversation with the artist. Swanson shared that one of the many valuable elements of her education at George Mason was the hands-on practice of preparing for performances. Learning how to make sure that charts were ready and could be easily read by other musicians during performances helped strengthen Swanson’s ability to approach events and gigs with other musicians with a higher level of confidence and ease.

As an intern with the Jazz Studies Program in the Dewberry School of Music, Swanson learned about the nuances of promotion and marketing, helping to prepare materials and social media content that would catch the eye and drive ticket sales for various concerts. These experiences supported Swanson as she pursued her graduate education, allowing her to promote and manage her performances more successfully and teaching her peers these essential skills as they built their careers.

With her yearlong reign as Miss Virginia 2024 just beginning, Swanson will continue to share her signature kindness, positivity, and determination with communities throughout the state. See more of her journey on Instagram @car.lee.ah

Topics

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

Dewberry School of Music

Jazz Studies

Miss Virginia 2024

Alumni

Frenn awarded Fulbright to pursue arts-based research in India

Colleen Rich — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 12:49:54 +0000

Frenn awarded Fulbright to pursue arts-based research in India Colleen Rich Mon, 07/01/2024 - 08:49

��AV professor Chawky Frenn, a painter and an associate professor in the School of Art, has received a Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Award for research and teaching for the 2024-25 academic year. As a Fulbright U.S. Scholar, he will conduct international research while teaching at Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, India, in the fall.

Chawky Frenn. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“My research will evolve around the role of art as a bridge between cultures, religions, and classes,” said Frenn. “In my teaching proposal, I emphasized the potential of art to cultivate connections between diverse cultures and communities. I will teach studio art and guide students in creating artwork addressing pressing societal issues of their choosing.” At the end of the semester, Frenn will curate an exhibition of student work at Banaras Hindu University.

While abroad, Frenn will focus on creating his own art, documenting his research and travels, collaborating with Banaras Hindu University’s faculty on art projects, and putting together an exhibition of his work before returning to the United States.

This is Frenn’s second Fulbright. His first was in 2017 when he pursued his international research in New Delhi, India. “During my 2017 Fulbright, I connected with people from various walks of life,” he said. “I am excited to be given another opportunity to establish new relationships, collaborate with new international partners in art and education, and build another body of work informed by my experiences and travels.”

He added, “[During 2017] I forged many meaningful connections with artists and academics who, upon learning about my upcoming Fulbright, have already invited me to visit their universities.”

Frenn was born in Lebanon and immigrated to the United States in 1981. He has a BFA from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design and an MFA from Temple University. His work has been featured in solo and group exhibits in galleries and museums across the United States, France, Germany, Italy, Lebanon, Paraguay, and India.

In 2009, Frenn received George Maso’s Teaching Excellence Award. He was a finalist for the same award in 2002 and 2006 and was also nominated for the award again in 2021.

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

School of Art

Fulbright

Research

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

George Mason joins arts research alliance

Colleen Rich — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 13:38:14 +0000

George Mason joins arts research alliance Colleen Rich Mon, 06/24/2024 - 09:38

��AV has joined the Alliance of Art Research Universities (a2ru) as an institutional member through a concerted effort by multiple colleges and the Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Impact (ORIEI). This action uniquely positions George Mason among other R1 institutions to support an emerging research culture in the arts.

George Mason's Center for Live Interactive Virtual Education uses the Window Wall™ system to connect leading artists with students from multiple institutions. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Justin Sutters, assistant dean of research and assessment in the College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA), is taking the lead on the membership and has already attended one of the alliance’s conferences.

Sutters sees participation in the alliance as generative in that it provides insight into other research universities and some of the challenges that they're encountering. “I think this also gives us a framework to share best practices to see how other colleges are navigating the current fiscal and political climate,” he said.

In this role, Sutters will also be working to elevate the research and collaborations already taking place in CVPA with a longer-term goal of “a vibrant and rigorous supported arts-based research structure at George Mason.”

“I think a lot of the arts-based research isn't fully visible across the university,” Sutters said. “And there are a lot of researchers in our university who are seeking interdisciplinary opportunities with units such as CVPA.”

CVPA Dean Rick Davis was one of the George Mason administrators championing this move. “Joining a2ru represents a pivotal moment for George Mason's profile as a major participant in the national conversation,” he said. “We've already both benefited from and contributed to the dialogue around the fast-changing world of research and creative production in the arts.”

Among the other universities participating in the a2ru are Dartmouth, Stanford and Georgia Tech. Other alliance members in Virginia are Virginia Tech and Virginia Commonwealth University.

In This Story

Justin Sutters

Learn more about CVPA

Topics

Research

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

A $5 million gift from the Peterson Family Foundation will support the Center for the Arts transformation

Colleen Rich — Fri, 24 May 2024 16:32:11 +0000

A $5 million gift from the Peterson Family Foundation will support the Center for the Arts transformation Colleen Rich Fri, 05/24/2024 - 12:32

This is the college’s second principal gift toward the university’s one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign, Mason Now: Power the Possible

The Peterson Family Foundation and ��AV’s College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) announce a transformational gift toward the reimagining of the Center for the Arts on the university’s Fairfax Campus. The $5 million gift will support the modernization and the renaming of the Concert Hall auditorium.

College of Visual and Performing Arts Dean Rick Davis, George Mason Board of Visitors member Jon Peterson, Carolyn Peterson, George Mason Board of Visitors Rector Horace Blackman, George Mason Vice President of Advancement and Alumni Relations Trishana E. Bowden. Photo by Sean Kelley PHotography

“The Peterson Family has stood behind so much of our success in building an exceptional community of artists—students, faculty, and distinguished visiting professionals—at George Mason,” President Gregory Washington said. “This latest expression of visionary generosity makes possible a much-needed reimagination of our beloved Concert Hall, magnifying ��AV’s standing as the artistic and cultural hub of Northern Virginia.”

This gift bolsters the forthcoming capital initiative for the Center for the Arts, which aims to improve and enhance the venue’s ability to support the needs of artists, audiences, and the students and faculty of the College of Visual and Performing Arts. The gift also contributes to Mason Now: Power the Possible—the university’s first one-billion-dollar comprehensive fundraising campaign to support student success, research, innovation, community, and stewardship.

Jon and Carolyn Peterson announced their gift during a special event in Carolyn's home in support of the college’s upcoming annual benefit ARTS by George!.

“Our family’s commitment to this project is a testament to our steadfast support of Mason Arts programs from the earliest days of the Center for the Arts right up to the present,” said Carolyn Peterson. “This gift is significant because we know it will provide our excellent students, world-class visiting artists, and the community of art lovers with a stellar Center for the Arts auditorium in which to share and experience the arts. We are honored to help move this initiative forward.”

Pianist GaYoung Lee and vocal performance student Samira Plummer-Brown. Photo by Sean Kelley Photography

“The Petersons’ gift is a demonstration of their belief in the distinction of Mason Arts and the contributions that CVPA makes in our region,” Dean Rick Davis said. “Their generosity will have an incredible impact on the arts community, elevating the possibilities for our student musicians, dramatic artists, dancers, and vocalists—as well as for those who work behind the scenes to learn and understand the business of creating powerful performances. We are beyond grateful, now and forever.”

Built in 1990, the venue has supported the early work of George Mason students whose careers led them to Broadway, and has hosted GRAMMY, Tony, Emmy, and Academy Award-winning artists—and U.S. Presidents.

“Carolyn’s love and dedication to the vocal arts at Mason are legendary,” added Director of Vocal Studies Patricia Miller. “We are deeply grateful of the Peterson Family Foundation for their long history of scholarship support. Now, with this exciting new gift to help renovate our Concert Hall, they will be part of making a major impact that will inspire audiences and help prepare the coming generations of student artists.”

Milt and Carolyn Peterson, together with their family, established the Peterson Family Foundation in 1997 out of a fundamental belief that to be successful, they must be fair, honest, and always strive to support the community in which they live and do business. Through their generosity and commitment to giving back, they have directly contributed to and helped to raise millions of dollars for a diverse list of organizations including Northern Virginia Family Service, Gleaning For the World, Life With Cancer, and Teach For America, among others.

The Petersons’ philanthropic leadership follows Barry Dewberry and Arlene Evans’s $10 million gift to rename the Center for the Arts, upon completion of its future renovation. The Dewberry Evans gift was shared with the Mason community as part of the university’s 50th Anniversary Celebration on April 7, 2022.

Information about the initiative to fund the Center for the Arts renovation, including project costs and timeline, will be announced at a later date.

Topics

Campus News

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

Mason Now campaign

Center for the Arts

About Mason Arts

Mason Arts encompasses the seven academic programs of George Mason’s College of Visual and Performing Arts, six community arts programs, seven galleries, the Center for the Arts, the Hylton Performing Arts Center, and the digital venue Mason Arts Amplified. The college prepares students for careers as creators, performers, teachers, scholars, arts leaders, and arts entrepreneurs, and provides them opportunities to perform, create, and exhibit their work in the wide variety of Mason Arts venues. Learn more at cvpa.gmu.edu.

George Mason's Green Machine Ensembles Bring the Rock, the White House Provides the Roll

Emily Schneider — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 16:25:43 +0000

George Mason's Green Machine Ensembles Bring the Rock, the White House Provides the Roll Emily Schneider Thu, 04/04/2024 - 12:25

Students, faculty, and staff of the Green Machine Ensembles pose together in front of the White House at the annual Easter Egg Roll on April 1, 2024. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Being invited to perform at the White House is an exciting honor for any ensemble, but for ��AV’s Green Machine Ensembles, it’s an environment where they are quickly becoming comfortable. Following their inaugural performance at the White House Easter Egg Roll in 2023, the ensembles were invited back for the beloved annual event on April 1, 2024. Despite gloomy weather, the Green Machine Ensembles showed delighted crowds how the rain can’t keep them down with a high-energy performance that kept guests mesmerized.

“Our students are engaged, enthusiastic, and dedicated,“ said Matthew Dievendorf, assistant director of academics, research, and audio production, Green Machine Ensembles. "This performance, however, required another level of preparation, not only in a musical sense but in a professional sense. Our students demonstrated admirably that they were ready to perform in a venue that required punctuality, poise, and responsibility."

“Both years this has been a really fun performance, and what makes it really special is the amount of different people we see that we don’t usually get to perform for,” said Kenny Yi, who will graduate with a BS in finance in May. ”It’s a really amazing way to get to have fun and perform for such a diverse audience. The coolest part for me this year was getting to talk to a Secret Service agent, and he told me he was excited when he heard we were coming back because he loved the variety and diversity of music we play, which is what I believe is truly one of the cornerstones of the Green Machine: celebrating diversity and inclusivity through our music.”

Guests at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll pause in front of the Green Machine Ensembles as they perform. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

In the vibrant world of the Green Machine, individuals with diverse skill sets and varying levels of experience come together to create something extraordinary. Comprising musicians, dancers, actors, artists, and more, this remarkable university ensemble celebrates the beauty of individuality while fostering a sense of unity. The initial invitation to perform at the White House Easter Egg Roll came from the ensembles’ previous performance for the Department of Education's Special Projects Division. The students' enthusiasm, talent, and infectious energy made them the perfect choice for this annual family-friendly event on the iconic White House South Lawn.

“It was a really great opportunity to perform at such a prestigious event two years in a row,” said Taye Folk, who is working on an MA in international security. “It was so cool to see how many people were surprised and excited to be welcomed to the White House by our energetic group, and it was really awesome to get to have our picture taken on the White House Lawn! Getting to perform alongside Jonesboro High School was electric and really exciting to see such talented young musicians having such a blast performing.”

Members of the Green Machine Ensembles dance as they play during their performance at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Members of the Green Machine Ensembles cheer for the Jonesboro High School Marching Band performing at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll on April 1, 2024. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Guests gather in front of The White House on April 1 for the annual Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

The theme for the White House Easter Egg Roll for the last three years was “Eggucation,” making this event an even more perfect fit for the Green Machine, whose ensembles are dedicated to learning as a community. Since its creation in 2006, inspired by the Men's Basketball team's epic NCAA Final Four run, the Green Machine has become a vital part of the Mason community. Made up of musicians, dancers, actors, artists, and more, this group creates unforgettable experiences that reflect the values and essence of Mason. The Green Machine has a clear and impactful mission: to deliver diverse and innovative performances for various events and venues. Captivating audiences with its electric energy and unmatched creativity, from exciting sports games to important university ceremonies, lively student recruitment events, and prestigious competitions.

Performers with the Green Machine Ensembles add a little snap to their performance at the White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Students performing with the Green Machine Ensembles can't hide their joy at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Wet weather at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll can't stop the music of the Green Machine Ensembles. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

“It was an amazing experience to get to perform at the White House!” exclaimed psychology major Bianca Natal. “Seeing so many people stop and listen to us, dance with us, and cheer with us all while we were at such a prestigious venue was a truly unique and exciting experience.”

Jeremy Freer, associate director of the Green Machine Ensembles, said, “We’ve striven to keep the Green Machine as inclusive as humanly possible for over 17 years now. No matter what instrument you play, audio engineering experience you want to have, or level of commitment, we make a space for you. The result of this policy is a group that has shaped itself over a decade and a half, bringing in amazing human beings and expanding our instrumentation with strings, harp, guitar, keyboard, mallet percussion, auxiliary percussion, vocalists, rappers, and scratch DJ's.”

Green Machine Ensemble performers get into their groove at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll on April 1, 2024. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Members of the Green Machine Ensembles can't stop smiling as they put on an incredible performance for the crowds at the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

Their commitment to inclusivity and celebrating individuality makes the Green Machine so unique. No matter your skill level or level of commitment, this fantastic group welcomes anyone with a passion for making music and who wants to be part of something truly extraordinary. In the true spirit of "All Together Different," the Green Machine celebrates the communities’ students are already part of, as well as the ones they form while at George Mason, providing a judgment-free space where students can explore their musical talents, form lifelong friendships, and express themselves artistically.

The Green Machine ensembles are all smiles after their second spectacular performance at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll. Photo by Joshua Cruse & Nathaniel Henry / Green Machine Ensembles

In This Story

Prof. Jeremy Freer

Learn more about the Green Machine

Topics

Green Machine

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

White House

White House Easter Egg Roll

student performers

Campus News

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) School of Music

Dewberry School of Music

Mason Artist-in-Residence Small Island Big Song Leads Events Across Campus and Community

Zoe Harr — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 20:41:10 +0000

Mason Artist-in-Residence Small Island Big Song Leads Events Across Campus and Community Zoe Harr Fri, 03/29/2024 - 16:41

In This Story

Buy Tickets

Learn About Mason's Artist-in-Residence Program

Mason Artist-in-Residence Small Island Big Song will perform at the Center on April 20. Photo taken by Gelée Lai, Tony Tsai, Samra Teague, and Kimmi Cranes.

Right before Earth Day, Small Island Big Song presents a "jaw-dropping" (Billboard) concert experience at the Center for the Arts on April 20, combining music, spoken word, and stunning projections to showcase unique oceanic grooves and soulful island ballads, while shining a light on the devastating effects of climate crisis on our world’s oceans. Indigenous artists from Pacific and Indian Ocean island nations mix their diverse styles to establish a contemporary musical dialogue between cultures as far afield as Madagascar, Taiwan, Mauritius, Papua New Guinea, Tahiti, and Indonesia.

Co-Founder BaoBao Chen joins Small Island Big Song at the Center on April 20.

“For us, the goal of Small Island Big Song is to bring the audiences to some places that we might not have the courage of going alone, to celebrate, to confront, to inspire, to mourn, to feel hopeful. Our performance goes to all these emotions and shares the stories of ‘Our Island’, but ultimately, ‘Our Island’ is the one we all share,” notes BaoBao Chen, co-founder of Small Island Big Song.

Want to learn more about Small Island Big Song? Read more on the official website.

As a Mason Artist-in-Residence, Small Island Big Song will also deeply engage with the community through a series of education and engagement programs, detailed below:

Open-to-the-Public Residency Events

Climate Change: Our Response as Artivists on April 18 will explore ways in which artists can use their voices to expand global conversation on political, economic, social, and cultural questions at the root of the climate crisis. This event is co-presented with the Inclusive Collaborative Arts at Mason (ICAM) project with panelists BaoBao Chen, Co-Founder and Producer of Small Island Big Song; Mark Cooley, Associate Professor and Director of New Media Arts, Mason School of Art; founder of Green Studio; Moderated by Edward Maibach, distinguished professor at ��AV and director of Mason’s Center for Climate Change Communication; and is a part of the Artist-Activist Speaker Series, an initiative of the Inclusive Collaborative Arts at Mason (ICAM) project. This event is free, but registration is required.
Small Island Big Song artist Sammy from Madagascar hosts "Trash to Music" on April 20.
On April 19, Small Island Big Song invites local students to experience a schooltime performance that includes participatory dance and rhythmic activities, as well as an open Q&A with students. This performance is free, but registration is required.
Also on April 19 and in collaboration with Mason Dining, Small Island Big Song artists will introduce Mason community members to a traditional island dish, fish curry. Led by Emlyn from Mauritius, the Cooking a Traditional Meal with Local Twists workshop will include food samples and musical accompaniment. The event is free to Mason students, faculty, and staff, but registration is required.
Led by Small Island Big Song artist Sammy and hosted by UpCycle Creative Reuse Center, Trash to Music on April 20 is an inspiring hands-on workshop demonstrating how to make musical instruments from trash, commonly recycled, and/or reused materials. Participants will be making a Malagasy-style berimbau and shaker. Recommended for ages 10 and up, minors must be accompanied by an adult. Limit of 20 participants with waitlist to notify if spots become available.

Additional Residency Activities for Mason and Local Community

Co-presented by the City of Fairfax and Center for the Arts, Small Island Big Song hosted a Friends of the Center for the Arts Artists in Conversation event, Our Shared Seafaring Heritage, Alive in Rhythm and Song, on April 2 at the Stacey C. Sherwood Community Center in Fairfax, VA. This lecture-demonstration provided geographical and historical background about the great oceanic migrations that affected the featured island nations of Small Island Big Song, and included musical demonstrations and an interactive Q&A.
Small Island Big Song artists Sammy, Yuma, Mathieu, and Small Island Big Song Co-Founder Tim Cole will visit Mason’s Dewberry School of Music program’s “Music History in Society III” course taught by Professor Greg Robinson.
In this Dancing Mauritian Sega workshop, approximately 100 second grade students from Hunters Woods Elementary School are invited to learn the Sega dance from Mauritius, led by Mathieu Joseph (Mauritius) with support from Sam Roem (West Papua).
Small Island Big Song artists and co-founders BaoBao Chen and Tim Cole will lead a discussion on the topic of “Artivism in Action - Managing Cultural Initiatives” with students of Mason’s Arts Management and Folklore programs’ “Folklore and Festival Management” course.

In addition to these special residency events, a pre-performance discussion with Small Island Big Song Co-Founders BaoBao Chen and Tim Cole will take place in Monson Grand Tier prior to the performance on April 20. The discussion will be moderated by Center for the Arts Programming and Engagement Manager Vic Adebusola.

Buy tickets to Small Island Big Song on April 20 and be transported to the musical islands that are just around the corner.

This engagement of Small Island Big Song is made possible through the ArtsCONNECT program of Mid Atlantic Arts with support from the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Mason Artist-in-Residence program is supported in part by the Wendy Frieman and David Johnson Fund.

The Small Island Big Song residency is supported in part by Eloise Stinger.

Thank you to the City of Fairfax Parks and Recreation Everybody Plays Grant program for making free tickets possible for the schooltime matinee program. This grant was funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Topics

CFA

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) Arts Management Program

folklore

Center for the Arts

Friends of the Center for the Arts

Mason Artists-in-Residence

Mason Dining

Campus News

Sustainability

How the Young Alumni Commissioning Project Supports Al Refai and Wahls' Visionary Projects

Lakin Raybuck — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 18:08:03 +0000

How the Young Alumni Commissioning Project Supports Al Refai and Wahls' Visionary Projects Lakin Raybuck Tue, 03/26/2024 - 14:08

Welcoming our alumni back to ��AV is even more exciting when they return to share work and projects that are deeply meaningful to them. Preparing to do just that are the latest recipients of the Young Alumni Commissioning Project (YACP), Jumana Al Refai and Rebecca Wahls.

Despite pursuing different degrees within the College of Visual and Performing Arts, each of these alumni found transformative connections during their Mason experience, impacting their outlook on the world as well as their creative futures.

What was most memorable about your time at Mason? Were there particularly eye-opening moments or experiences during your time as a student? How have those experiences impacted your work, potentially including this project that the YACP will support?

Al Refai: Going to Mason was something major. I already graduated and held a bachelor's degree, but it was a big deal because I was actually pursuing a dream of mine and going to Mason was the first step. I was there for a total of three years. The first two years were a struggle because everything was new to me. Everything from the approach to dance, the structure of technique, understanding music, learning different movement approaches, it was all very new to me. I came from a movement background where dance meant simply responding to what I heard. Improvisation was something I was extremely comfortable with. At Mason I learned how to interpret what I heard. How music works, how movement works, and how my body works in response to that. I gained the tools to truly understand why we as humans respond to things physically. Why we use our bodies to express what we hear, what we think, and what we feel. By the time I entered my final year at Mason, I felt like I had truly understood these tools and was able to confidently start applying them. I applied this in my final choreographic piece at Mason which was the third piece that I had choreographed. That experience was an “aha” moment where I understood the power of choreography. I felt empowered because not only did I gain the tools to structure my thoughts and creative process, but now I was able to convey the messages I want to show the world. It made me understand the power of movement and how sometimes words simply are not enough to convey a message.

Wahls: As the director and producer of Him, a feature film, I needed to have a working understanding of all elements of production. While my Mason degree is in Theater, it trained me to always be learning about what those around me do. For kinesthetic learners, learning is doing, so I am a better artist for having spent hours in a lift hanging lights for a production I wasn't otherwise involved in. You have to understand how processes other than your own work - especially if you aspire to leadership positions.

After moving on from Mason, Al Refai expanded her educational and professional experiences at The Ailey School, the official school of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, The School at Jacob's Pillow, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, San Francisco Conservatory of Dance, and Akram Khan Company Intensive in London. These experiences “[refined] my choreographic voice… I was ready to take on the world of movement confidently. It prepared me to not be afraid to try things and to constantly explore my movement voice.”

A native of Kuwait, Al Refai returned there in 2018, where she founded the Haraka Center for Movement Arts (HCMA). The center is a beacon for women and girls, offering a supportive environment to explore dance. HCMA's philosophy emphasizes movement as a universal form of communication, encouraging students to embrace their individuality and push artistic boundaries.

Wahls similarly continued her educational exploration after leaving Mason, completing her MFA in Directing from Carnegie Mellon University, where she was a John Wells Fellow from 2020-23. In 2017, she founded the nonprofit theatre Who What Where Productions, where she produced and directed several world premiere plays including Spills by Ruthie Rado, which has gone on to successful runs in NYC and London. Rebecca has worked as Artistic Associate for Acting for Young People since 2012, and her current focus with the company is on private coaching and corporate improv events. In April 2022, Wahls spoke at TEDxCMU, delivering her presentation titled “Yes, And: The Power of Improv in EveryDay Life."

Both women are excited to bring their unique projects home to Mason, with the support of their awards from the Young Alumni Commissioning Project.

The Haraka Project, an extension of Al Refai’s vision, seeks to elevate dance awareness in the Gulf region through performances that draw on Middle Eastern art, music, and landscapes. This initiative not only showcases Jumana's choreographic talents but also fosters collaboration with local artists, contributing to a vibrant cultural dialogue. Reflecting on her path, Jumana credits her time at Mason with preparing her for the challenges and opportunities of the dance world. Her journey underscores the importance of curiosity, risk-taking, and adaptability—qualities she encourages in current and prospective Mason students. When Al Refai returns to campus, she will present Tashkeel تْشِكيل, a short film featuring four dancers from Kuwait and abroad as well as Al Refai as dancer and choreographer.

Building on the expansive skill set she developed at Mason and beyond, Wahls will present Him, a feature-length ensemble comedy film. Wahls directed, co-wrote, and co-produced Him, alongside actor and writer Tess Higgins. Wahls is excited to showcase her work to the Mason community which helped to foster her personal and professional growth with the film, which is now an official selection of the Sedona International Film Festival.

What advice or insights would you offer to current or prospective Mason students as they consider pursuing their own artistic practice and professional careers?

Al Refai: Take risks. Ask Questions. Be the odd one out. Try new things. You will only regret the chances you didn’t take so seize every opportunity that comes your way. Whatever plan you have set for yourself, adapt. Adapt to the changes that come your way and learn from these experiences, and see what you can learn from it. Whether you are a prospective or current student at Mason, stay hungry for knowledge and invest in yourself as an artist.

Wahls: Instead of "networking," focus on building community. Many people I met at Mason remain allies to my artistic practice. Him features the work of fellow alums Kira Omans on screen, and of Noah Peterson and Keenan Gibson behind the scenes. Our VFX Supervisor, Eric Stenmark, is someone I didn't know at Mason, but was connected to because of my strong network within the Mason alumni community. I'm writing a new musical with another alum, Maggie Marie Rodgers. Faculty members Mary Lechter, Kevin Murray, and Rick Davis have all been instrumental in my professional journey. Your community is everything, and right now, you should be fostering your Mason community so that it transcends your undergraduate experience.

You can follow the creative journeys of each of these talented artists on social media, with Al Refai via @jumanaalrefai and @haraka.center, and Wahls via @rebeccawahls.

Stay tuned for more news and announcements about these talented alumni and to help us welcome them back to campus for their events during the 2024-25 academic year!

Topics

Young Alumni Commissioning Project. alumni support

Alumni

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

Tech Talent Investment Pipeline (TTIP)

Andy Yoder featured in new Baltimore exhibition 'Strata of Synthesis,' opening April 6, 2024

Pam Muirheid — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 17:14:46 +0000

Andy Yoder featured in new Baltimore exhibition 'Strata of Synthesis,' opening April 6, 2024 Pam Muirheid Tue, 03/26/2024 - 13:14

In This Story

Andrew Yoder

Door Number Four, 2008, by Andy Yoder. Mixed media (styrofoam, plexiglas, artificial flowers)

Strata of Synthesis is an exhibition where artists Andy Yoder (professor at Mason School of Art) and Phaan Howng examine the natural world as a fantastical state. They propose connections in historical and contemporary crises relating to intricate layers of domestic and societal narratives within their work. This synthesis within their practice manifests their efforts to explore diverse logical aspects of meaning and interpretations within their everyday environment.

Andy Yoder was born in Cleveland, Ohio, studying at Skowhegan and Dartmouth College prior to graduating from the Cleveland Institute of Art. His work is in numerous public and private collections, and exhibitions include shows at the Brooklyn Museum of Art, the Queens Museum of Art, Winkleman Gallery in New York, and the American Academy of Arts and Letters. His work has been reviewed in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The New Yorker and Art in America. Commissions include works for ESPN, Continental Airlines, Progressive Insurance, David and Susan Rockefeller, and the Saatchi Collection. He currently maintains a studio at Stable in Washington DC while living in Falls Church, Virginia.Phaan Howng | Andy Yoder STRATA OF SYNTHESIS APRIL 6 - MAY 18, 2022 Opening Reception: April 6, Saturday, 2-4 pm

Phaan Howng (b. 1982 Providence, RI) received her BFA in Painting from Boston University in 2004 and her MFA from the Mt. Royal School of Art at MICA in 2015. The artist has presented solo exhibitions at museums including the Baltimore Museum of Art in Maryland and the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C, Asian Arts and Culture Center at Towson University in Maryland, MoCA Arlington in Virginia, and Dinner Gallery in New York City. Her work has been featured in notable publications such as The New York Times T List, Smithsonian Magazine, Artnet, and the front page of the Baltimore Sun. Howng lives and works in Baltimore, MD.

Topics

School of Art

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

Faculty and Staff News

International dance conference offers Mason students unique performance and networking opportunities

Shayla Brown — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 19:55:01 +0000

International dance conference offers Mason students unique performance and networking opportunities Shayla Brown Wed, 02/14/2024 - 14:55

In This Story

Lawrence M. Jackson

As Lawrence Jackson, a ��AV School of Dance professor, watched four of his students performing on stage at the annual International Conference and Festival of Blacks in Dance, he said, “It was a moment of validation.”

“The performance illustrated the effectiveness of Mason’s dance program and our commitment to fostering, nurturing, and showcasing talent from the next generation of dance artists,” he said.

A photo of Mason's School of Dance students performing at the 2024 International Conference and Festival of Blacks in Dance. Photo provided.

The conference was hosted Jan. 24-28 in Memphis, Tenn., by the International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD). The association and its conferences serve as vital platforms for promoting excellence, fostering collaboration, and advancing the visibility of Black dance within the broader dance community and society. 

The association holds significant importance as a prominent organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the contributions of Black dance artists and professionals. Mason students who participated include first-year to senior Dance majors.

“This is the first time that Mason’s School of Dance has ever gone to an IABD conference, so I’m really grateful and excited to be a part of that,” said sophomore dance major Sanaa Fairley.

Their performance, which was part of the Youth and College Artists Performance “Love for the Rhythm,” was choreographed by senior Brianna Dawkins.

“It was extremely important for me because it was my first time representing myself as a professional choreographer,” said Dawkins, who is an arts management minor.

The conference gave students opportunities to showcase their skills and network with current professionals in their field.

After their performance, the Mason students received invitations to audition for different dance companies, said Dawkins. “That was really amazing because we all walked out of the theater with these new opportunities,” Dawkins said.

“There are so many valuable experiences like classes and panels held by masters in their field,” said Fairley. For example, the students all took a West African dance class that was offered to attendees. “That [class] was really grounding and allowed me as an artist to see what inspiration I could pull from other people and cultures.”

“We really tried to soak up as much knowledge as we could, especially as younger dancers learning from our older peers and making those connections.”

The students compared the conference atmosphere to a family reunion.

“I saw people that I've danced with in previous summer intensives and reconnected with teachers that I've trained with. I also met directors of companies which is important for potential future jobs,” said Dawkins.

This performance was freshman Jaelyn Perkins’ first at an IABD conference as a college student.

“It was amazing to be able to share that space with so many Black artists and having that sense of community. There are endless accessible opportunities for Black dancers at this conference,” said Perkins.

Mason's dance program contributes to these experiences by consistently facilitating connections between students and professionals in the industry, said Jackson. Throughout the academic year, students are routinely exposed to opportunities within the field, such as networking events and internships.

“Through my experiences here at Mason, there are so many professional opportunities like this conference. I felt so empowered being around so many successful Black dancers,” said sophomore dance major T’aja Williams. “It was a constant reminder of what my capability can look like and the possibility of being successful.”

Overall, the trip was a huge success, Jackson said.

“I would love to make it an annual or biennial trip. The School of Dance maintains a commitment to providing enriching experiences that align with the educational mission of the dance program and I think attendance at IABD helps facilitate that commitment,” he said.

Topics

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

Students

College of Visual and Performing Arts School of Dance

black artists

networking

Koko H. Beetle Honors the Hylton Center’s Community Contributions

Zoe Harr — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 17:26:00 +0000

Koko H. Beetle Honors the Hylton Center’s Community Contributions Zoe Harr Wed, 02/07/2024 - 12:26

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Creative Services/��AV.

Audiences at the Hylton Center will soon see a unique name adorning the halls of the Education and Rehearsal Wing. An anonymous donor has recently included the Hylton Center in their estate plans, and as such, the Hylton Center has recognized their outstanding generosity by naming the first of two classrooms in the Education and Rehearsal Wing the “Koko H. Beetle Classroom.”

But who is Koko H. Beetle? “It’s three names, really,” shared the anonymous benefactor. “'Koko’ is a cat—an adopted stray named for the Kohala Coast in Hawaii. ‘H’ stands for Hobie, another adopted stray cat and short for Rehoboth, Delaware, a favorite place to visit. And ‘Beetle’ is one of my child’s nicknames since they were little.”

When asked what inspired them to remember the Hylton Center in their estate plans, the longtime donor and patron responded, “You can’t take it with you… we are really happy with what we have… and someone else can have the rest.”

Having grown up in a city surrounded by world-class arts, they recognized the Hylton Center as a true asset to the people in the City of Manassas, Prince William County, and its surrounding community. This donor hopes that their gift will help the Hylton Center continue its mission to stimulate and transform the cultural and economic vitality of the region after their lifetime. Inviting others, especially children who may not otherwise attend, honors their own experience growing up and extends their lifelong tradition of volunteerism and helping others.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Creative Services/��AV.

They shared that their own child (that same “Beetle!”) practically grew up at the Hylton Center, attending performances and even performing on stage. That early introduction to the arts sparked a passion that is still alight today, manifested through continued participation as a performer and frequent audience member.

The parent-child duo worked side by side in making decisions about how they would plan for the future. “We live in a modest house, we live below our means… we decided that we would leave the bulk of our estate to be put to good use in the community.” They noted being inspired by others who have lived quietly and donated the majority of their wealth. Between a scholarship at “Beetle’s” alma mater—and now this outstanding support of the Hylton Center—the Hylton Center team very much looks forward to honoring these donors and making good on their desire to “put it to good use.”

��AV’s Office of Planned Giving is here to answer any questions you may have about how you can make an impact on the Hylton Center through an estate gift—no matter the size.

Learn more about Planned Giving

For any additional questions about planned giving at the Hylton Center, contact our team at mylegacy@gmu.edu.

Topics

Hylton Center

Campus News

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

philanthropy

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

On the Heels of Previewing Her Debut EP, A CVPA Alum Brings a Crown to George Mason

In This Story

Topics

Frenn awarded Fulbright to pursue arts-based research in India

Topics

George Mason joins arts research alliance

In This Story

Learn more about CVPA

Related Stories

Topics

A $5 million gift from the Peterson Family Foundation will support the Center for the Arts transformation

This is the college’s second principal gift toward the university’s one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign, Mason Now: Power the Possible

Topics

About Mason Arts

George Mason's Green Machine Ensembles Bring the Rock, the White House Provides the Roll

In This Story

Learn more about the Green Machine

Related News

Topics

Mason Artist-in-Residence Small Island Big Song Leads Events Across Campus and Community

In This Story

Buy Tickets

Learn About Mason's Artist-in-Residence Program

Topics

How the Young Alumni Commissioning Project Supports Al Refai and Wahls' Visionary Projects

What was most memorable about your time at Mason? Were there particularly eye-opening moments or experiences during your time as a student? How have those experiences impacted your work, potentially including this project that the YACP will support?

What advice or insights would you offer to current or prospective Mason students as they consider pursuing their own artistic practice and professional careers?

Topics

Andy Yoder featured in new Baltimore exhibition 'Strata of Synthesis,' opening April 6, 2024

In This Story

Topics

International dance conference offers Mason students unique performance and networking opportunities

In This Story

Topics

Koko H. Beetle Honors the Hylton Center’s Community Contributions

Learn more about Planned Giving

Related News

Topics