Makiah Osborne
Chinook Writer
Photo courtesy of Patrick Amelotte
Pictured above is the Expression staff visiting the World Heritage Site, “Taos Pueblo,” in Taos, New Mexico. Listed from left to right: Natalie Plumlee, Zoe Von Gunten, Rowan Olson, Eddie Siebert, and Mike Olson.
Expression Magazine at Casper College anchors the initiative that encourages every student to pursue creative work, providing tangible publications for future portfolios. Established in 1964, Expression is a student-run literary and arts magazine publishing the artwork of students and community members alike. Throughout the academic calendar, the student staff compiles original pieces, designing the magazine to fit the assigned theme of each year. Upon each annual release, a judging committee of one faculty member, one student, and one community member votes on the contents accepted into the final publication.
Casper College English Instructor and Faculty Advisor of Expression Joseph Campbell said, “If it is creative, we want to see it.”
The magazine’s content spans from conventional pieces such as poems and paintings to abstract ceramics and fashion design. Authentic creation finds commonality among the publications, as acceptance is not confined to a conventional box.
Eddie Siebert, last year’s literary editor and current staff advisor, shared, “The goal to me at least, is to spread awareness to the fact that everyone on campus can be creative, and they are able to be a part of something that could help their career. Whether that’s in schooling or in their job-life, if they want to be in art or be an artist, that (Expression) is a great avenue to get there.”
As the school year proceeds, assigned students compile artwork for the current year’s issue, taking place at the end of each spring semester. Submission deadlines fall at the end of February. Traditional roles of the magazine staff include the president, general advisor, editor in-chief, and aligned personnel. Such a structure promotes student voice, not only in the magazine’s contents, but in production, editing, and publication. Expression initiates student recognition, even in the preparation process.
Campbell explained, “For instance, if we’re keeping up with things, you should be able to walk into Wind City Books and find a copy of Expression. You should be able to go to City Brew, over here on the East side, and find a copy of Expression so that our students are not just being recognized by their fellow students, but by the community as well”.
Campbell said opportunities outside of Casper College arise from the acknowledgements of Expression. Expression, an addition to any portfolio, adds credibility and experience, both for student staff and student publications.
“Submit. Now. Like I said earlier, ‘that poem, that short story, that amazing photograph you got of the mist coming in just right over your campsite — that’s not doing you any good just sitting on your hard drive,” Campbell said. “Get it out there. Let people know you have a creative eye — you have a creative sense of how things can be put together. We want to see your work.” Expression Magazine promotes student voice and creative endeavors, encouraging students along their personal and professional career.
