Remodeled IMU darkroom open

Photographers and artists alike have a new resource on campus to express themselves and be creative. \nThe Union Studios opened its newly renovated darkroom for photographers in the Indiana Memorial Union Monday. In addition, a variety of six-week classes, including courses in pottery and ceramics, are offered for students through Union Studios this semester. \nThe Union Studios is located in the IMU's Back Alley past the arcade. The darkroom has doubled in size and has a new ceramics studio, said Kera McElvain, Union Studios program director.\nThe studios are available for membership now until \nApril 28.\nMembership costs $85 for students and $90 for non-students. The costs provide for unlimited access by keypad almost any time the Back Alley is open. \n"It's the only place on campus I can come and hang out," said freshman Sarah Jane as she created a lid for her porcelain pot in the new ceramics studio. \nThe darkroom is an upgrade from its former self, which was a renovated bathroom, said McElvain. It provides almost all equipment a photographer would need, including Beseler and Omega enlargers. Artists need to provide only paper and chemicals, which the artist can store in the darkroom, according to a press release. \nThe darkroom includes three work stations, allowing users to have their own equipment, personal light and space. \nMcElvain said the studio is a great alternative for fine arts students who need more \nroom to work. \n"It is also for non-artists who just need a break from regular classes and want to learn something new," said McElvain.\nA nine-foot sink can handle prints up to 16-by-20 inches. In addition, a new Dry Mount Press is 16-by-20 inches and is available to use with the professional matt cutter for print mounting. Members will also find a darkroom supervisor as a resource so they can seek help or advice in studio, according to the release.\nGroups may also plan activities in the studios. There is a $15 cost per person that covers all materials and a two-hour session.\n"This is a great place for resident assistants to take their floor members for an activity," said McElvain. \nThe Union Studios classes, which do not offer course credit, have two sessions beginning Jan. 23 and March 21, according to the Union Studios \nWeb site. \nFor more information or to schedule a group appointment, contact McElvain at studios@indiana.edu or visit www.imu.indiana.edu/studios.