Inside…
The Biggers’ Circle Enhances Student Interest in the HU Museum
Apryl Reardon and Sarah-Anne Leverette
participate in the Parade of Nations
during the 2008 International Children's
Festival in downtown Hampton.
The Hampton University Museum’s Biggers’ Circle is dedicated to promoting and enhancing the student’s experience with the University Museum through student initiated programming, volunteerism, and community outreach.
“Promoting education through visual art and helping people understand it, is definitely a rewarding experience,” said Biggers’ Circle President Apryl Nandi Reardon.
This organization was founded by students, James Powell, Kendra Thompson, Elijah Heyward III, and Steven Chambers in September 2002. The name Biggers’ Circle was selected in honor of renowned American artist Dr. John Thomas Biggers. Painter, sculptor, printmaker, muralist, educator, and author, Biggers came to Hampton Institute in 1941 where he was inspired to pursue a career in art. He was Hampton University’s artist-in-residence for the 1990-91 academic year when he painted Tree House and House of the Turtle for the William R. and Norma B. Harvey Library. Biggers died in January 2001 but has legacy that will live on to inspire students.
Biggers Circle President Apryl Reardon, Corey
Smith, museum intern, and Stephanie
Clarke, vice president of the Biggers Circle
pose during the 2008 Homecoming Jazz Brunch.
Reardon, a psychology major from Harlem, N.Y., said that this year she wants to host more “free-thinking, open events” so students can develop a new appreciation for the University Museum.
This year the Biggers’ Circle has hosted the Jon Onye Lockard art exhibit, the 6th Annual Homecoming Jazz Brunch and on every third Thursday of the month children ages 4-7 enjoy story telling at the Children’s Corner event. The Biggers’ Circle also participates in the City of Hampton’s International Children's Festival held in the spring.
-Amanda Mobley