February 26, 2026
For Immediate Release,
Office of Public Information
Crowder College
RE: Crowder College Fine Arts to host Neosho High School Senior Capstone Exhibit
Neosho, MO – Crowder College – The Fine Arts Division is pleased to host
“Metamorphosis,” the capstone art exhibition for Neosho High School senior art
students.
These students have been working on their art pieces for the entire academic school
year. They’ve also been enrolled in Neosho High School art classes all four years of their
high school and their teachers say these are the most advanced students out of the Art
Department.
“The exhibition title ‘Metamorphosis’ arose out of an understanding of the commonalities
that the seniors regarded in each other’s work throughout this academic year. This
exhibit is a ‘coming of age’ experience for the students as it symbolizes a finish line in
their artistic journey at Neosho High School,” stated Ela Abbott, Neosho High School Art
Teacher. “The work in the exhibition will have numerous references to childhood, growth,
and evolving to the next phase of their adult lives. Much like a butterfly, they are ready to
spread their wings and soar to their futures.”
The goal is to give the students a real-world application by having their art displayed in a
professional, local art gallery and hosting critiques and other practicing artists to visit
with the students.
“The Longwell Museum in Crowder College and Neosho High School’s Art Department
have a fantastic partnership. We are always willing to work with the faculty, Lucas Witt,
Ela Abbott, and student artists as our intentions align with aspirations for quality work
and well executed ideas,” stated Josh Novak, Crowder College Art Instructor and
Longwell Museum Director. “This exhibition is a new journey for both of our institutions,
but we are so excited to participate in this journey together.”
The exhibition is available for viewing from March 2 until March 26 inside the Longwell
Museum and will offer a reception from 5pm – 7pm on March 26. The Longwell Museum
is open Monday through Friday from 9am – 4pm (closed on holidays and in inclement
weather) and is located inside the Elsie Plaster Community Center at Crowder College
Neosho, located at 601 Laclede Ave., Neosho, MO. The exhibit is free and open to the
public.
For more information, please contact the Office of Public Information at 417.455.5540,
or CindyBrown@Crowder.edu | KateScott@Crowder.edu