The Brushfire, the University's literary and arts journal, will be releasing its 58th and 59th editions Friday, May 4. A reception will begin at 5 p.m. in the Sheppard Fine Arts Gallery and will include readings, music, awards and refreshments. The Brushfire features the work of talented artists and writers in the northern Nevada community.

"The event will primarily be a reception celebrating the accomplishment of this year's artists," said Kelly Bridegum, Brushfire editor.  

The 58th edition was scheduled to be release in February, but due to printing problems and funding issues, the Brushfire team decided to release both editions in May.

Bridegum said the Brushfire received more than 560 submissions for the Fall and Spring editions. After a rigorous review process with Bridegum and a review committee, the final products collectively feature 282 pieces of art and writing created by 127 artists and writers. A special edition DVD featuring 31 pieces of art, video and music will also be available at the reception for $10.

"Each piece was evaluated by at least three reviewers before being discussed," Bridegum said. "It seemed like an impossible task at times to review everything with the care and precision necessary to make the publication, but incredibly exciting to see such support and enthusiasm.

Bridegum said she strived to place the pieces in a way that allowed them to compliment and relate to each other. She said this allowed her to bring in her perspective and the perspective of the Brushfire staff.

"My personal goal with the publication was to organize the work in such a way that the viewer would not have a legitimate excuse for skipping a piece," Bridegum said. "I think that has been accomplished."

Bridegum said that the new editions feature more visual art than previous editions.

"In the past it has been more focused on writing," Bridegum said. "I think the new editions better represent the multiple creative genres and range of work produced at the University."

Bridegum said she is genuinely impressed by the talent behind all of the work submitted this year.

"I am honored to have served as editor during what I think was a landmark year," Bridegum said. "I am also incredibly grateful for the generous support of the ASUN senate, ASUN publications board, and ASUN fiscal board, which made it possible for me to produce two editions and feature so many outstanding pieces and artists."

The Brushfire was founded in 1950 and is the oldest literary and arts magazine in the state of Nevada. The Brushfire welcomes all forms of creative expression for submission, including but not limited to: painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, poetry, essays, music, video and animation. Students who are interested in more information regarding the Brushfire are encouraged to contact Brushfire staff at brushfire@asun.unr.edu.