Alumni Artists Return to Watkins for 'Among the Beyond' Exhibit

Exhibition highlights creative paths, enduring connections of Watkins College of Art alumni

Blythe Colvin first stepped onto Belmont's campus in 2016, thinking as many others do— that she was destined for the music business. Instead, she found herself drawn to a different creative path – one that would eventually lead her back to campus as co-curator of "Among the Beyond," an exhibition featuring the works of Watkins College of Art undergraduate alumni on display through Feb. 21 in the Leu Gallery.  

As Colvin began to explore her options at Belmont, she registered for a 2D color class with Assistant Professor Mandy Rogers Horton. “She was just the sweetest, most encouraging lady,” Colvin said of Horton, who recognized her student's natural talents and urged her to pursue design. “She was really real with me... she said, 'No, you need to study design.’”  

That candid guidance exemplifies the personalized attention and mentorship that sets Belmont's programs apart. 

Building a Strong Creative Foundation 

“I don't think I really understood going in the variety of design-adjacent work that is available after graduation,” Colvin reflected. The program's comprehensive curriculum, which included courses in linear, layout, packaging and website design, gave her a strong foundation to explore various creative directions. An internship with New Hat Projects, a surface design and wallpaper company, further opened her eyes to the exciting intersections between graphic design, fine art and hands-on studio work. 

Now working as a production specialist at fine art printing company Chromatics, while maintaining an active freelance design practice and preparing for her upcoming solo show “Family Mythologies” at Elephant Gallery in December, Colvin represents the diverse career possibilities available to Belmont graduates.  

Curating 'Among the Beyond' 

When Director of Galleries & Programming Katie Mitchell reached out about her co-curating an alumni exhibition, Colvin jumped at the opportunity to collaborate with fellow alumnus Matt Christy ('07). Working closely with Mitchell, who Colvin credits for providing a clear vision and organizational framework, the team carefully selected pieces that would showcase the breadth of talent and diverse artistic approaches emerging from the College. 

"Among the Beyond" showcases this variety through works from multiple alumni at different career stages. From traditional sign painting to intricate miniature worlds shown in photographs, the show demonstrates the program's emphasis on both digital and traditional craftsmanship.  

For Colvin, curating the exhibition has been both inspiring and enlightening. “It's so fun to see how people's work has evolved and where their trajectories have taken them,” she reflected. “Standing in a room surrounded by these pieces, you're really surrounded by fifteen different perspectives – fifteen chances to change your own perspective and to learn.” 

Blending Design and Fine Art 

Colvin's own contributions to the show – two pieces titled “Red Belly’ and “Sunday Afternoon” – reflect her custom blend of graphic design principles with fine art painting. “I wanted to start bringing graphic elements and graphic principles into the paintings themselves,” she explained, describing how she explores concepts like point, line and plane through intersecting colors and rhythmic elements.  

A Lasting Connection 

What stands out most about Colvin's college experience is the lasting connection she maintains with the Watkins community. When she learned her selection as co-curator came through faculty appointment, she was touched. “It made me really happy to know that the faculty at Belmont were still thinking of us and have us in mind for things post-graduation.”  

This strong alumni network and continued faculty engagement create what Colvin describes as a "tight-knit" community within Watkins. “Everyone always wanted to see each other succeed in school and post-graduation,” she reflected. Through social media and professional connections, she stays in touch with professors and fellow alumni, drawing inspiration from their diverse career paths – from traditional design roles to unexpected creative ventures. 

A Journey of Lifelong Learning 

The exhibition itself serves as a powerful reminder that artistic development is an ongoing journey. “The work isn't necessarily the final product,” Colvin observed, noting how some established artists in the show embrace a more naive style while recent graduates display remarkable technical precision. “It really is about lifelong education and lifelong creation.” 

For current and prospective students, Colvin's message is clear: Watkins, and Belmont as a whole, is an institution that genuinely champions their students' success. “Keep in touch, both with professors and with other students,” she advises. “It will do you so good in the long run.”  

Colvin continues to accept design and painting commissions while actively engaging with fellow artists through her Instagram and website. 

"Among the Beyond" remains on display through Feb. 21, offering visitors a window into the myriad possibilities that await Belmont fine art and design graduates. The exhibition stands as a testament to the program's ability to nurture individual creativity while building lasting professional relationships that extend well beyond graduation.