The artwork of two Ashford University photography students will be on display in the University’s Cortona Art Gallery from April 1-17, and an artists’ reception will be held in the Gallery on Monday, April 6 from 4-6 p.m. 

The photographic exhibit will feature “Rust in Peace” by Amanda Pearson and “Exploring Westbrook” by Mitch Haack. Both students are from DeWitt, Iowa and are expected to graduate from Ashford in May. 

“I chose a subject that has meaning to me that is also interesting and has not been used at the Ashford gallery,” Pearson said about her photographs. “My angle was to find and photograph rusted out, abandoned vehicles dating from the 1930s to the 1960s.  I wanted to show a lonely feeling, but also have older people remember the good, old, simple times when these vehicles were in their prime and being used.  Besides just a unique subject, I wanted to portray a historic subject that makes you think back in time.” 

Haack’s photographs focus on the people and nature found in Westbrook Park in DeWitt.

The Cortona Gallery is located on the second floor of Ashford University’s Clare Hall at 400 North Bluff Boulevard in Clinton.  The Gallery is named for Sister Cortona Phelan, OSF, former president of Mount St. Clare College and former president of the Sisters of St. Francis.  For many years, Sister Cortona influenced the quality of education at the College through her teaching of American history and her love of the arts.  She also served as MSC Academy Principal and as Dean of Students at the College.

The Gallery is open to the public, free of charge, every weekday from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. and for private showings by appointment.  For further information, please call 563.242.4023. 

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is a coeducational institution regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, with programs in education, business, accounting, criminal and social justice, computer animation and graphic design, and other areas.  The University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as a range of student activities and athletics, at its Clinton campus.  Online degree programs are available in education, organizational management, business administration, and psychology.  The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable on-campus and online programs, with tuition fees among the lowest in the U.S. compared to other private institutions.  Its tagline is: “Higher Education Made Affordable”^SM.  For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, Director of Public Relations, at 858/513-9240 x2513.