The Student Art League (SAL) hosted its first Art Prom since the COVID-19 pandemic on April 15 in the Visual Arts building on campus. The event was a fantasy masquerade theme, free, and open to anyone at the University of Wyoming.
“The purpose is to allow students a few hours where they don’t have to worry about assignments, exams, or any of their responsibilities for school,” student and SAL president Blue Ayotte said.
“We also want to provide a safe and welcoming environment so that everyone can relax and have a good time.”
Ashlyn Dunn, a senior art major, echoed similar thoughts.
“All the active members of the Student Art League worked so hard to put on Art Prom this year. It was an amazing night where anyone could come and dress however they want,” Dunn said.
“The art community is one of the most inclusive communities out there, and it was so amazing to have a night where we could all come together and celebrate. Art prom was so fun, and I really hope they continue doing it for years to come.”
Attendees of the event were told to wear whatever made them feel comfortable, and when they got to the dance, they were greeted with free food, drinks, music, strobe lights, a photo wall, and the opportunity to decorate a mask using different supplies provided by the art department.
“We want students to take away fun memories from this,” Ayotte said.
“College doesn’t have to be all stress and homework all the time. It’s important to have fun and spend time with friends outside of classes and study sessions.”
SAL is an on-campus recognized organization of ASUW that promotes individual artmaking and group learning. They help preserve the art and art history area on UW’s campus, as well as maintain and support one of UW’s inaugural student food-sharing cabinets, which is housed in the Visual Arts building.
