WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University will host a solo exhibition by ceramic artist Hannah Lenhart in the Nutting Gallery as part of the regional “Ceramics Take Over Wheeling” event. The exhibition opens Feb. 26 with a reception from 5 to 7 p.m. and will remain on display through March 26.

The showcase features Lenhart’s solo work, offering visitors a focused look at her distinctive approach to functional ceramics.

“We are thrilled to feature Fairmont’s own Hannah Lenhart as part of Ceramics Take Over Wheeling,” said Nutting Gallery Director Brian Fencl. “Her work beautifully transforms daily rituals into moments of joy through vibrant colors and whimsical, functional design, bringing a cheerful energy to our exhibition that perfectly captures the spirit of West Virginia talent.”

“Ceramics Take Over Wheeling” is a collaborative, citywide event celebrating ceramic artists and clay enthusiasts across multiple Wheeling-area galleries and venues. The four-day experience, held Feb. 26 through March 1, 2026, includes workshops, artist demonstrations, talks, and numerous exhibition openings. Organizers describe the event as an immersive celebration of both contemporary and traditional ceramic art throughout the city.

The event connects multiple exhibition sites, including two national juried ceramics shows at Bethany College and the Stifel Fine Arts Center. Visitors are encouraged to travel between locations, turning the experience into a cultural tour of the Ohio Valley. Event times and gallery locations are available through participating venues.

Fencl emphasized the importance of the partnership.

“Partnering with Oglebay Institute, Wheeling Heritage, and other local venues for Ceramics Take Over Wheeling allows the Nutting Gallery to serve as a vital bridge between academic rigor and the vibrant creative economy of our region,” he said. “For West Liberty University, involvement in this citywide event is essential. It provides our students with a front-row seat to professional practice while reinforcing our mission to educate, enrich, and engage the public through high-quality art.”

Hannah Lenhart is a West Virginia native and graduate of Fairmont State University. She operates her own studio and shop in Fairmont, where she produces and sells handcrafted, hand-painted ceramics through her business, Hannah’s Clay Creations. Each piece emphasizes functional objects designed for everyday use.

Lenhart says her goal is to make “life’s little rituals a little more special,” from morning coffee to displaying flowers at home. Her work is intended to add brightness and encourage people to pause in their daily routines. Pieces featured in the Nutting Gallery exhibition will be available for purchase.

Lenhart is also a Tamarack Foundation fellow, supporting her development as an emerging West Virginia artist. Through that role, she has exhibited her work across the state. The exhibition provides both students and community members an opportunity to engage directly with a working Appalachian artist.

The Department of Media and Visual Arts offers experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for careers in creative and journalistic fields. To learn more, visit westliberty.edu/media-visual-arts.

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.

This release was prepared by Media Communication student Gailya Dodd.

Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu