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For John Hampshire, the line between being an artist and a professor has the soft edges of an impressionistic painting more than the stark contrasts of modernism.

“In some classes, I integrate my work into what I’m doing here,” the Fine Arts professor said. “But I’m always affected by what students are doing and their energy.”

Hampshire has seen the campus change considerably in his time teaching. Development of the Residence Hall draws students from a broader geographic region, he noted. And, of course, creation of a Fine Arts major in recent years has a big impact on his classes.

“I’ve definitely noticed students are more focused and accomplishing more interesting work,” he said. “That’s encouraging and I’m really looking forward to seeing the program grow.”

Already, the Fine Arts department is collaborating with other programs on campus, so thinking about where those projects can go is exciting, he said.

“In any kind of college environment, there’s a support that’s unique,” he said. “The energy is something that affects me.”