Various paintings were on display in the University Center showcasing UTM talent at the BeanSwitch Art Show and Poetry reading on Thursday, March 3.

The night began with students setting up their works of art and pottery while other students began to fill the room. After viewing different types of artwork and talking with the artists who were inspired to create them, students sat down at about 8 p.m. to listen to poetry.

Crystal Zanders, a senior Spanish major from Clarksville, Tenn., served as MC for the evening.

Glenda Mash, from Columbia, Tenn., read the poem “Never Made a Fortune,” which spoke of the simple riches of life such as love, family and just being pleased with life without material things. The writer of the poem is unknown.

Sandy Tolar, a freshman English major, read an original poem titled “Hands,” which was about Jesus’ transition from baby, to child, and into a man. “Far too often people forget that Jesus was a child and was raised by a loving mother who had to endure the pain of losing a son,” said Tolar.

Beanswitch is student publication project ran by students.

Assistant English Professor Dr. Leslie LaChance said, “I am pleased with the turnout, and I am consistently impressed by the students taking on all of the responsibility.” Lachance said it made her feel good to know that the future will be in the hands of such responsible and creative young people.