Wright State’s annual ArtsGala auction to spotlight student artwork

Wright State art student Mikail Berger-Messenger’s relief print “Still Life with Watering Can” will be featured in the ArtsGala silent auction, a highlight of the April 11 celebration of student creativity that raises scholarship support for fine and performing arts students. (Photos by Erin Pence)

To one student, it shows that she’s grown as an artist. To the other, the recognition gives him confidence.

Wright State University art students Suvekshya Maharjan and Mikail Berger-Messenger will see their work spotlighted during this year’s ArtsGala. Their pieces were selected for the event’s silent auction, a highlight of the annual celebration of student creativity that raises scholarship support for fine and performing arts students.

ArtsGala will take place Saturday, April 11, in the Creative Arts Center. The evening begins with a VIP reception for Grand Patrons from 6 to 6:45 p.m. in the Upper Stein Galleries, followed by an opening ceremony from 7 to 7:30 p.m. in Schuster Hall.

Throughout the night, students from the School of Fine and Performing Arts will showcase their talents through music, dance, theatre, visual art, film and more.

The silent auction will feature student artwork alongside luxury gift baskets, fine dining certificates, vacations and entertainment packages. Guests can view the items in person from 7 to 10:30 p.m. in the Lower Stein Galleries before bidding online. Supporters can also participate in the silent auction remotely, even if they are unable to attend ArtsGala.

The works by Maharjan and Berger-Messenger were selected for the auction by the ArtsGala Host Committee, made up of prominent community volunteers, in the annual ArtsGala student art competition.

“This recognition affirms the work students put into developing their skills and preparing for professional careers,” said Rebeca Foley, ArtsGala coordinator.

For Maharjan, a sophomore from Nepal, this year marks her second consecutive selection. Her photograph, “Lightburst,” was chosen for the 2026 auction, following last year’s selection of her acrylic painting “The Lite.”

Her new piece represents a shift creatively.

“Last year, in my painting, I was trying to express what I was feeling,” Maharjan said. “This year, it was an experiment to improve my skills in other fields.”

After having a painting selected for last year’s silent auction, Suvekshya Maharjan will have her photograph “Lightburst” featured in this year’s ArtsGala.

The experience reflects how much she has grown during her time at Wright State. Last year, Maharjan said she was still adjusting to campus life and felt unsure speaking with ArtsGala patrons about her work. Now, she is more confident.

“This year, I made friends, I have good relationships with my professors,” she said. “I’m really comfortable.”

Berger-Messenger’s selected work, “Still Life with Watering Can,” is a striking relief print. Originally from Everett, Washington, near Seattle, Berger-Messenger is a junior concentrating on oil painting and printmaking.

“I like the composition, how the swan and watering can handle make a circle,” he said.

Having his work selected was a meaningful moment. “It means a lot to me,” he said. “The recognition gives me confidence in my art.”

Although their work will appear together at the auction, Maharjan and Berger-Messenger arrived at Wright State through different paths.

Maharjan studied studio art before coming to the United States. She later worked at an institute that helped students pursue study abroad opportunities. Through that experience, she became interested in studying in the U.S. and ultimately chose to enroll at Wright State for its strong fine arts program.

Berger-Messenger moved to the Dayton area for his husband’s job. After earning an associate degree in biology, he decided to pursue his lifelong passion for art at Wright State. Berger-Messenger, who expects to graduate in spring 2027, hopes to pursue a career as a freelance artist and work in a gallery or museum setting.

Both students said the event plays an important role in supporting art students.

Berger-Messenger said the event helps emerging artists gain exposure and recognition, while Maharjan noted that the scholarships funded by ArtsGala have made a meaningful difference for students like her.

“Being in ArtsGala and contributing to it — I’m glad I’m able to help in such a way,” Maharjan said.

Support the arts at Wright State

Community members can support Wright State’s student artists by attending ArtsGala or participating in the silent auction, which is open to online bidders regardless of attendance. Proceeds provide scholarships for students in the School of Fine and Performing Arts.

To donate an item for this year’s silent auction, email Becca Webb at artsgala@wright.edu.

Tickets, sponsorship opportunities and silent auction information are available at wright.edu/artsgala.