By Natasha West, student news writer

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. - Campbellsville University student Lindsey Harrod of Springfield, Ky., will showcase her senior art exhibit through Dec. 2 at the Art Gallery at 205 University Drive, Campbellsville.

Also, there will be an art reception Friday, Dec. 2 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. This event is free and the public is welcome to attend. Refreshments will be offered at the reception.

Harrod's senior art show is a representation of exceptional artwork that has been completed by the artist over her four years at Campbellsville University. Artwork displayed will include paintings and drawings. There will be a chance for guests to purchase artwork directly from the artist at the show.

Harrod said, “All of my paintings and drawings tend to lean toward representing real life. I am mesmerized by trees and the real colors of nature. I chose to do a series of paintings on trees. This collection represents my love for nature and the beauty of God's landscape.”

She also said, “I enjoy working in oil painting especially because of the fluidity of blending hues easier and the vibrant colors it produces. I want to portray true colors of landscapes and trees I view and am able to using oil paints.”

She said, “The first piece of my tree series I have done in oil is titled ‘The Protector. It pictures a tree with an owl looking down at the viewer. The owl is a white owl that stands out dramatically against the dark green leaves. This is meant to attract the viewer straight to the ‘protector' and evoke a sense of curiosity as to why the owl is staring so intently. This piece is meant to portray the beauty and curiosity of nature.”

Harrod's second piece in this series is labeled “Forest.” She said the piece pictures a vast number of trees going back into the distance. The skyline is bright and vibrant with hues of blue and pink. The skyline makes the trees stand out vividly, making the viewer want to explore all of the intricate trees that have been painted.

“I have chosen to paint the trees thickly enclosed together with a bright sky because I wanted to capture the beauty of nature at one second in history,” she said.

“I enjoy painting because I am able to capture the essence of a moment and keep it there forever said,” Harrod said. “I also enjoy how paintings can show emotions through colors and evoke feelings from the viewer. I will continue to paint in real life settings because of my love for capturing time as it is frozen in space.”

Harrod is the daughter of Bettie Harrod and is a 2008 graduate of Washington County High School.

Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university with more than 3,500 students offering 63 undergraduate options, 17 master's degrees, five postgraduate areas and eight pre-professional programs. The website for complete information is campbellsville.edu.