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New Views at Rasmuson

The fourth floor of UAF’s Rasmuson Library has long been a haven for quiet study and reflection. Now, it offers something more—something visual, inspiring, and uniquely community-focused. Thanks to a collaborative effort between Director of Libraries Karen Jensen and Associate Professor of Photography and UAF Art Gallery Manager J. Jason Lazarus, this serene space will also serve as a new on-campus gallery venue, designed to bring fresh art to the university community.

This initiative reflects a growing interest in blending intellectual and creative enrichment across campus spaces. “The library has long had numerous artworks in our spaces. In addition to supporting regular class work and research, the library space can provide enrichment to students in the way of book displays, temporary exhibitions for celebratory months or days, and art,” said Jensen. “Most campus spaces are functional, as is the library, but providing visual enrichment beyond the formal academic programs encourages students to think outside of their major, and fosters lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity.”

Jason Lazarus, a driving force behind the initiative, sees the gallery as an opportunity to bring underrepresented voices and new perspectives into the academic setting. “I envision the space being utilized by local art graduates, faculty and community members, but to show new work that hasn't been displayed in Fairbanks before,” said Lazarus. “For students, this encourages them to continue to create after graduation and still have a potential venue for their work while also diversifying the artists we typically see on-campus by encouraging community involvement.”

Though the gallery space is already in use, the logistics are still evolving. In the 2025–2026 academic year, the library will work with Lazarus and others to develop a formal application process that invites UAF students, faculty, staff, and alumni to propose exhibitions. Until that process is finalized—likely later this summer—artists will be invited to exhibit by special invitation.

Jensen emphasized that inclusivity and accessibility are key pillars of the gallery’s mission. “I'm excited to host more exhibitions by UAF folks who do not normally have a space to display their work. Many of the library employees really love art, take art classes, or otherwise engage with art and we are all enthusiastic about this opportunity to enrich campus life for everyone who visits.”

There are a few limitations that artists should be aware of. Since the gallery space also functions as a quiet study area, all displayed works must be two-dimensional—paintings, drawings, photographs, prints, etc.—and must not produce any sound. Jensen clarified that there are no content restrictions, aside from the standard stipulation that art must comply with state and federal laws.

As the space continues to evolve, its foundation remains rooted in the idea that art is for everyone. Whether you're a student exploring new ideas, a faculty member looking to share your vision, or a community artist hoping to connect with UAF, this new gallery space offers an exciting platform to showcase creativity, spark conversations, and add richness to our academic and cultural life.

To kick things off, Jason Lazarus is the first artist to exhibit in the space. His solo exhibition Western Consumption—a thought-provoking exploration of material culture—is on view now through June 30, 2025. Everyone is encouraged to visit the gallery and experience the work.