Photo By Lori Dugan/EAC: Pictured are, from left, Todd Haynie, EAC president; Holt Brasher, EAC art professor and Fine Art Council member; Tracey Hartley, Baylen’s mother; Baylen Hartley, featured artist; Janie Haller, Baylen’s grandmother; Keith Alexander, EA’s Chief Government Relations Officer and Fine Art Council member; and Dr. Susan Wood, EAC Vice President of Student and Academic Affairs and Fine Art Council member.
By Lori Dugan/EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College’s (EA) Fine Art Council proudly announced Baylen Hartley as the Presidential Spotlight artist for Spring 2024, at a reception held earlier this week at the College’s District Office.
Hartley, a dedicated student artist, was selected for this prestigious designation by the Fine Art Council, following a nomination from her art professor, Holt Brasher.
Originally from Seattle, Washington, Hartley returned to her family’s roots in Thatcher in 2021 to pursue her artistic aspirations at EAC. Her passion for the visual arts stems from her childhood, where she was inspired by her grandfather, an accomplished artist and potter. Throughout her artistic journey, Hartley has explored various mediums, including graphite, charcoal, acrylic painting, and ceramics, always eager to push the boundaries of her creativity.
Hartley’s artwork often reflects her appreciation for the beauty in the world around her, drawing from both realism and abstract imagery. Her dedication to her craft extends beyond personal expression as she works towards her degree in secondary art education, aspiring to inspire future generations as a high school art teacher.
Jeff Henley, EAC graphic design professor and member of the EA Fine Art Council, expressed the institution’s commitment to showcasing outstanding student artwork. “Eastern Arizona College will continue to celebrate outstanding students’ artwork by displaying new pieces throughout the year and by moving the outgoing pieces to new locations around campus to be enjoyed by everyone,” said Henley.
The Presidential Spotlight designation serves as a recognition of Hartley’s talent, dedication, and contributions to the arts community at Eastern Arizona College. Her artwork will be prominently featured in College President Todd Haynie’s office through the end of the semester.
For more information about the EA Fine Art Council and upcoming exhibitions at Eastern Arizona College, please contact Henley at jeff.henley@eac.edu.
