MMC’s ArtFusion News Unifies Artists of All Genres

Assistant Professor of Art History Adrienne Bell, Ph.D., was inspired to create the magazine after reviewing many great essays and writing samples from her students upon joining the MMC staff in 2006. “I wondered how these texts might find a broader audience [and] wanted my students to become familiar with the process of preparing articles for publication,” she said. 

The magazine is a canvas for multiple cross-disciplinary views of culture both in and surrounding the MMC community. Past articles range from a focus on dance and science, philosophy and art, literature and theater, and many others. 

Bell says the fusion of multiple art forms is what makes Artfusion Newsdifferent from other MMC publications, giving it a truly unique take on today’s creative fields. 

“Artfusion News helps the Marymount Manhattan community become more aware of the exiting cultural activities and accomplishments of our students and faculty, and the rich array of cultural offerings in New York and abroad,” Bell said. “The magazine is a collaborative process from start to finish and a great way for students to advertise their own work.” 

The current edition of the magazine includes an article about Alwin Nikolais’ choreography, which was recently featured in MMC’s dance department, a look at “Broadway on Broadway,” a recent fundraiser in the theater community, and a response to a collection of art from Spain shown at the Frick Collection. Highlights of the study abroad experiences of MMC students are also featured, as well as in depth interviews with Marymount Manhattan faculty who share information about their work. 

Artfusion News is published in fall and spring semesters, welcoming submissions both semesters. Bell sees an average of 15 to 20 potential pieces, selecting as many as possible, with the occasional help of student editors. She also encourages students studying graphic design to assist in the design aspect of the magazine. 

“When going on internship and job interviews, these student designers show finished copies of the magazine to prospective employers as examples of their design and production skills,” she said. 

Student writers and editors also feel they build their credibility through their submissions. 

“It is definitely beneficial to have published articles,” said Holly Grover ’11. “Say for interviews, one can bring in the actual copy of ArtFusion News and give it to the interviewer; it makes the writing that much more credible.” 

“I feel like I’ve improved my writing each time I submit, so it’s exciting to see that progression. I’m also applying to grad schools, so I think it’s good that they (grad schools/employers) see that I’ve taken the initiative to do more than just my coursework,” said Meghan Quinlan ’11. “This is a great opportunity to get published at the undergrad level. I don’t think enough people are aware or take advantage of this.” 

When it comes to getting their peers involved with the magazine, Grover and Quinlan share a similar opinion. 

“Do it! Articles can be short and sweet, lengthy, amusing, or address hard hitting issues…it is enjoyable and you can only benefit from it!” Grover said. 

“ I love writing, and it was an excellent opportunity to get dance out there and have people reading about my favorite art form—and I knew it would be good practice,” Quinlan said. “Write something you’re excited or passionate about. Chances are, someone else will be interested too!” 

In 2007 only 50 copies of Artfusion News were printed. Today 500 copies are made available to readers. The free publication is made possible through advertisement funding, and are available in the Office of Admissions. Look for the latest edition at the end of the fall 2010 semester. 

Written by: Valerie Roder ’11, English major and student worker with MMC’s Office of College Relations and Advancement. 

Marymount Manhattan College is an urban, independent, liberal arts college. The mission of the College is to educate a socially and economically diverse student body by fostering intellectual achievement and personal growth and by providing opportunities for career development.

Published: November 09, 2010