A reception will be held at 6 p.m. this Thursday, Oct. 5, for two student exhibits currently on display in Old Main. The exhibits feature materials from the University of Arkansas Museum collections.

Nate Hubbard, graduate history student, and Amber Cooper, anthropology alumna, created these exhibits while interning at the U of A Museum. The exhibits are located on the fifth floor of Old Main by the central staircase.

Art in Activism, curated by Hubbard, highlights the prominence of "art in activism through cultural, social and political actions from the 19th century to the present day."

Among the artifacts featured in the display include a wooden bowl from post-colonial Ghana that features a Sankofa symbol. This symbol of the Akan culture took on new meaning when indigenous traditions, which the previous colonial government had attempted to eradicate, were revitalized by individuals such as artists, writers and playwrights.

Buttons and song lyrics supporting political issues and social causes that gained prominence in the 20th century are also highlighted.

The Circle of Life Through Culture, curated by Cooper, explores biodiversity through natural history and cultural materials. A selection of squirrel, mouse, bat and armadillo specimens can be studied up close. People may commonly see them in daily life, but the exhibit explores how the animals have "incredibly diverse species that are specifically adapted to their environment."

Material culture depicting the animals is also examined. From a glass mouse figurine from France to a mouse trap to a mask depicting a bat from Mexico, these objects represent "the reputations people commonly associate with these animals" and important social functions associated with them.

Don't miss this opportunity to see the exhibits! All are welcome to attend the reception and chat with the student curators. Their exhibits will be on display through November.

As a fun addition to the reception, attendees will be able to make buttons featuring objects from the exhibits or customize their own.