With some digging, I’ve found that the area has its fair share of cool nerds—an expected but not always obvious discovery, given the university’s influence. I invited people from this community, whether they considered themselves artists or not, to respond to a simple prompt: create a kitchen scene and place one figure in the center. The rules were loose, and I accepted every submission, even those that strayed from the prompt, because that, too, reveals something about their perception and experience.
This exhibition wasn’t about artistic talent, though it’s certainly present. As a student of cognitive science, psychology, and neuroscience, I’m drawn to people’s minds. Having lived so much of my life through art, I see its elements clearly—but what fascinates me is the story revealed when someone responds to a prompt like this. I was most intrigued by the figures they would conjure, the idea of a significant form, and how sentience is represented in another’s mind. To me, that speaks to their humanity. In a way, this was an experiment, true to my scientific tendencies. It was also a way to spotlight the voices of those who might not usually share them. I see intelligence and talent in my community every day, in both casual interactions and quiet moments. This was an opportunity to let their minds speak.
I’m pleased with the response I received. What I love about this showing is that there’s truly a place for everyone—a direct reflection of each individual mind’s output. I chose to host this event through Starkville DIY, the local arts nonprofit I often collaborate with, because I arranged an unconventional music performance composed by Joshua Mays Brown. He, Ryan Loudin, and Lorena Montoya performed the piece not on traditional percussion instruments but on literal kitchen utensils. I did this for the reasons I mentioned earlier—to give people a strange, fun outlet—and, because, come on. It’s funny.
The One Night Only was exhibited at the Dunkington Gallery in Downtown Starkville. The last-minute move to a the beautiful space couldn’t have been more fitting! Thanks to Starkville Arts for assisting in set-up and planning.
Felicitations to everyone who cooked in the kitchen!
The works
Lily Behnam
Bryce Yzaguirre
Cade Harrison
Jackson W
Brianna W
Kaitlyn Church
Skyla Daniels
Gustavo Espinoza
Anna Justice
Leah Vaughan
Britney McDonald
Elizabeth Beard
Kleitz-Singleton