West Liberty University’s Nutting Gallery is excited to kick off its 2025 exhibition season. Starting September 10, the gallery will showcase the stunning work of photographer Kelsey Nolin.
The exhibition, titled “Meandering Pause (The Farm),” opens with an event on September 10 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Attendees can enjoy a Q&A session with Nolin at 6 p.m. The artwork will be displayed until October 9.
Director Brian Fencl praises Nolin’s work as “beautiful and meticulously crafted.” He notes that her pieces capture the calmness of rural life, showcasing a deep connection to the land.
Nolin’s creative process is unique. She forages organic materials from her family farm—like hay and branches—and brings them into her darkroom. These elements are carefully integrated into her photographs, creating a blend of nature and art.
The process is both intuitive and meditative. Nolin uses various techniques such as pouring and brushing photographic chemicals onto the paper. This hands-on approach gives her work a tactile quality that invites viewers to explore.
With a master’s degree in photography from Miami (Ohio) University and experience teaching at several institutions, Nolin brings a wealth of knowledge to her art. You can find more of her work at her website.
The Nutting Gallery is dedicated to promoting art education and appreciation. The gallery hosts various exhibitions, including features from visiting artists and special shows by students and faculty.
Located in the Fine Arts Building, the Nutting Gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, making it a great opportunity for the community to engage with art.
For those interested in the impact of photography in today’s world, recent studies show that art can significantly enhance community engagement. According to a survey by the National Endowment for the Arts, communities with active art programs report higher levels of civic involvement and social cohesion. This underscores the importance of places like the Nutting Gallery in bringing people together.
Join the conversation about Nolin’s work and the value of community art on social media. Use the hashtags #ArtInCommunity and #KelseyNolin to share your thoughts and reaction.

