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VPA Supports Student Summer Research

Student Awardee at SLAM

Art history student Martha Barnds (at right) was named the summer 2025 marketing and communications intern at the Saint Louis Art Museum. 

The summer award was established in 2022 to support students in the arts wishing to persue academic or professional projects over the summer. 

Any major or minor in the Visual and Performing Arts department who has completed a minumum of 60 credit hours by the end of the spring semester is eligible to apply for that year's summer award. The funds can be used to support any needs in a student's area of study.

Supporting Student Research

This year, five students were chosen to receive summer awards, for a total funding of $2,500. Below, hear from the student recipients on how their projects were impacted by the awards.

Student tattoo artist
Amari Moore utilitzes her new equipment at Enigma Tattoos.

Amari Moore, studio art ('25)

"The Summer Award had a significant impact in relieving the financial barriers I faced when starting a full-time tattoo apprenticeship. It covered two-thirds of my equipment costs, allowing me to purchase the tattoo machines I needed to begin my training. This reduced financial stress while also allowing more time and focus to be put into my practice, rather than taking on extra hours at a second job to support my start-up costs. I'm extremely thankful that this award provided the tools and time I needed to launch my post-university career in the arts."

 

Three women stand in front of a stone wall

Julia Bautz (center)  opening ceremony from June 2 at Contemporary Art Museum for the Gyo Obata Fellowship. Photo by Miranda Munguia.

Julia Bautz, senior studio art major

"I’ve really enjoyed my time in the fellowship working at Laumeier. I’ve learned a lot about the non-profit arts world from my colleagues and enjoyed the site visits and other events with the cohort. I’ve been working in the curatorial and educational departments doing primarily research and writing. I’ve also been helping with the conservation of some sculptures in the park, which has been really exciting."

 

A female student wearing glasses smiles
Martha Barnds is all smiles at the Saint Louis Art Museum.

Martha Barnds, art history major

"This past summer I was incredibly fortunate to be chosen as the summer 2025 marketing and communications intern at the Saint Louis Art Museum.

"I remain incredibly grateful for this opportunity which introduced me to the professional Marcom environment in an art museum setting. During my time at SLAM, I wrote articles published on the museum website, created original social media content reflective of the museums collection and engaged in several events hosted for the public. This experience truly equipped me with the skills and insight necessary to pursue a career in the art industry. I will be able to incorporate the knowledge and skills I have gained throughout my career as a student and professional."

 

two actors in medieval costumes

David Joseph (left) in Macbeth, presented in the Xavier Hall Main Stage Theatre in October 2025.

David Joseph, theatre major

"My summer acting intensive at the Atlantic Acting School was truly one of the most life-changing experiences of my life! I was able to work on my acting craft 9 to 5 everyday, live and breathe artistry every day in New York City with like-minded artists who also wanted to be the best versions of themselves. This would not have been possible without the Summer Research award from the Visual and Performing Arts Department, so thank you so much to SLU VPA for their support."