A graduating student at the University of Nebraska Omaha presents their work as part of the BFA Thesis and BASA Senior Exhibition. (Image property of UNO Gallery)
By Abigail Gocek
Young Artists Showcase their Talent in UNO BFA Thesis and BASA Senior Exhibition.
May 9th, 2025
The joy of art is one that can be enjoyed alone or with your entire community. With such a vibrant artistic culture in Omaha, it is no surprise that young artists continue to create masterpieces for the local community to enjoy. At the University of Nebraska Omaha, graduating students in both the Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts programs are showcasing their artistic talent in the BFA Thesis and BASA Senior Exhibition.
BFA artists Hayden Johnson, Chloe Jaspersen and Fatima Parra are displaying their artworks in the exhibition. Held twice a year at the end of each semester, the BFA Thesis and BASA Senior Exhibition is not only a chance for the artists to gain experience displaying their work in a gallery, but it also celebrates the achievements each student has made along the way.
Jaspersen, originally a graphic design major, spent her time in the BFA program experimenting with her artistic style. While she dabbled in two-dimensional art and watercolor, Jaspersen eventually found herself drifting back towards graphic design in her art. She incorporates the medium into her pieces displayed in the exhibition.
Fellow artist Parra recalls similar changes in her artistic style during her time in the program. While she initially started as an oil painter, Parra developed a passion for mixed media artwork. She often combines any combination of ink, charcoal, print making and oil painting in her work. Parra says that her time in the BFA program led her to developing not only her artistic style but also her voice as an artist.
Another artist, Johnson, typically creates her art through oil painting. Similar to her peers, she spent time trying various different mediums, such as 3D art. Once her passion for oil painting became apparent, she focused on developing her skills further.
Each artwork in the exhibition is the culmination of every artist’s artistic development during their time in the BFA and BASA programs in UNO. The exhibition is open weekdays from 10 am to 4 pm now through May 15 and is held in the Art Gallery, located on the first floor of the Weber Fine Arts Building.
