At FSU Libraries, our dedicated staff and faculty members are more than the books lining our shelves. The FSU Libraries Art in the Library program centers on bringing art from the Florida State student body into our library spaces, to celebrate the artistic and research endeavors of our local creative community. For the first time ever, Art in the Library looked even more locally and, for the summer 2024 semester, we present an exhibition of art created exclusively by some of the artists present among FSU Libraries employees. The pieces featured in this exhibition highlight a depth and breadth of artistic techniques, mediums, and subjects, illustrating the richness inherent to the libraries professional community at Florida State University. The works by these artists will be on display through the semester on the main entrance of the second floor of Dirac Science Library.
Meet the Artists of Florida State University Libraries:
Mina Akbari
I am an Iranian/American multidisciplinary artist, based in Tallahassee, Florida. My work explores the social and political tensions in Iran and its impact on people’s daily lives. I received my bachelor’s degree in textile art focusing on Persian and Afghan rugs. I am passionate about combining the practice of traditional motifs of oriental rugs and paintings with contemporary art to tell new stories of cultural heritage. I paint with acrylic on canvas and employ cutting and swing techniques on canvas. I came to the US to pursue my studies and receive my master’s degree in art history nine years ago and passed many challenges in this new environment. Now I have a different range of feelings including the feeling of suspension between two countries Iran and America which I incorporate it in my paintings as well.
Jess Barmon
Jess Barmon, a classically trained artist, serves as the Web Services Librarian at FSU Libraries. Having undertaken 11 years of formal art education, including higher studies, Jess discovered a unique synergy between her artistic background and the realm of technology. While proficient across various mediums, Jess’s heart lies in the creation of mixed media art, particularly drawing and painting.
Mason RK Hall
Mason Hall is a creative professional, currently serving as a UX Researcher and Web Developer at Florida State University Libraries. Mason has been an amateur artist for most of his life, a journey that recently led him to explore the vibrant and expressive world of acrylic painting. His current artistic fascination lies in the diverse wildlife of Florida, with a particular focus on the state’s native birds and their natural habitats.
Katie Kimberly
Katie Kimberly, a passionate artist, finds joy and expression through various mediums including drawing, painting, digital art, and photography. Despite facing challenges with stuttering, the 26-year-old artist has dedicated two and a half years to FSU Libraries as a member of the desktop support team. With a bachelor’s degree in Studio Art from FSU, Katie is currently expanding her horizons with a Master of Science in Information Technology. Her art serves as a profound outlet for creativity, allowing her to communicate and connect with the world in her own unique way.
David Maki
David Maki grew up in Snellville, Georgia, and in Ft. Myers, Florida, with a creative imagination and a love for stories, myth and legend which were the foundations for his later involvement with art. David read comic books, played Dungeons and Dragons was influenced by Frazetta and Science fiction. He has traveled extensively, serving four years in the United States Marine Corps, and was part of Operation Desert Storm during the Gulf War. His exposure to war and travels to Japan and to the Middle East have influenced his perceptions of Western Culture and engendered a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, art, and Sumi Ink art.
David pursued martial arts for many years and is a 3rd degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate. David graduated from FSU in 1997 and backpacked through Europe for two months. His exposure to art in Europe, particularly Van Gogh and Rembrandt, has left a deep impression on how he composes and uses light in his photography and art. David loves nature, history, and paradoxes often found in human drama. His art reflects his capacity to see things from many perspectives, letting the viewer form their own judgment. David paints in oil, acrylic, and watercolor. You can find more of his work at www.MakiClan.com.
Rob Rubero
I have always enjoyed the fun and therapeutic nature of drawing. Since I was a kid, I’ve been fascinated by dinosaurs and history. I enjoy combining these two passions and creating images that depict historical figures as dinosaurs. As a part of the Special Collections and Archives team for over 14 years, I have learned the importance of detail, and I enjoy layering symbolism into my compositions.
Stephanie Shrewsbury
Having lived in Tallahassee for the past 15 years, Stephanie takes much of her inspiration from the oft strange and half-sunken beauty found within the North Florida landscape. Despite having no formal training, Stephanie continues to make art her focus in life and attempts to make something new just about every day.
Stephanie has worked on various community projects, including murals and artwork for local bands and other organizations.
Here, Stephanie pays her respects with paper, scissors, and glue. Â
Mila Turner
Mila Turner creates a variety of art and music with African Diasporic elements or motifs. Also a sociologist, her research centers on intersections between the environment, African American culture, and social inequalities. Her insightful sociocultural analyses have been featured in academic journals as well as national media outlets.
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