Assistant Professor of Art Ray Chen began doing ceramics 15 years ago after obtaining a music degree He felt frustrated as music was something he merely performed, not created. Chen’s mother was a flower arrangement teacher, and suggested Chen make some flowerpots for her. From there he realized that he could be creative through the forgiving medium of clay by creating sculptures.
Last spring art student Jill Atkins alleged that Chen purposely destroyed her artwork, and filed for a protection from abuse order to keep him away from her and her pieces. However, at the May 17 hearing, Atkins did not show up, and the request was denied.
Chair of the Art Department Michael Shaughnessy said Chen is “very well loved,” and “other than Jill” he hasn’t heard of any problems with Chen’s performance.