Sure, coming to school on a Saturday doesn’t sound like something you would sign up for, but for ten Nossi students, it was an opportunity to get Nossi’s College of Art’s own chapter of Kappa Pi started. Kappa Pi is an international honorary art fraternity that focuses on arts, academics and involvement in the local community. Nossi’s Eta Tau chapter is one of 350 chapters across the United States and abroad, and also one of the best ways for artists to network and connect.
Saturday started with games so students in different programs could meet and get to know each other better. They spent the afternoon laughing as they shared their histories, interests and random facts about themselves. They also discussed ways to get involved in Nashville’s community through the Martha O’Bryan Center, The Pencil Foundation and Hands on Nashville. Since Nossi’s focus is on arts and education, they wanted to help younger students by getting involved in their education and artistic opportunities.
“I am excited to see the impact this group can have, not only on other students at Nossi, but also on the community around Nossi,” said Libby Funke Luff, the student activities coordinator that helps students begin groups and get involved in Nashville. “This program will bring out the leaders in our students.”
After introduction and fun activities at Nossi, the Initiation Ceremony moved to Main Street Gallery in East Nashville. It was the perfect setting for this intimate gathering of students, faculty and family.
As you walk into Main Street, the warm, ambient light fills the room. The industrial lighting brought a chic look to the room that was perfect for showcasing artwork. With space to hang over a dozen pieces, Nossi College picked ten essential terms that represented the Eta Tau commitment to Nossi and to East Nashville. HONOR, LEADERSHIP, RESPONSIBILITY, ENGAGEMENT were some of the bold words framed around the room as a reminder of what is expected from each member.
The location of the ceremony and the space at Main Street Gallery could not have been more perfect for this event, and we want to thank everyone there for supporting our group! If you are looking for a place to hold your next event, be sure to contact Whitney at Main Street!
An interesting fact about Kappa Pi and Nossi College of Art; they share similar origins. Each started because an artist or group of artists that saw greater potential in their careers and careers of other artists. Nossi College was created because Ms. Nossi Vatandoost wanted to teach art, and she started with a humble beginning – teaching a small handful of students in a friend’s kitchen. Kappa Pi’s existence began after a group of art students wanted a forum to critique and discuss their work. Both Nossi and Kappa Pi have morphed into something bigger than its original purpose – now they want all artists to create and build on their professional careers.
To see more images from this event, please visit our photo album on Facebook!