WEST LIBERTY, WV – September 2, 2025 – What do the study of a medieval Book of Hours, the publication of an original poetry collection, and the use of masks in creative arts therapy have in common? All three are the topics of lectures in this year’s West Liberty University College of Liberal and Creative Arts Lecture Series.
Distinguished faculty will address these and other topics every third Wednesday at noon in the Elbin Library throughout this academic year. Open to all, these free presentations represent the depth and range of scholarship and creativity across the arts, humanities, and social science fields at the University.
This year’s series will also include Pat Garret, Emeritus Professor of Music and a longtime music educator in the Ohio Valley, who will share his treasure trove of instructional strategies with educators in February.
The series opens on September 17th at noon in Elbin Library with Dr. Susan Ridley’s presentation, “The Expressive Use of Masks Across Cultures and Healing Arts,” based on the collection of essays she edited, which gathers best practices from arts therapists across various disciplines, including music, visual arts, dance, drama, and bibliotherapy. As one reviewer noted, “Susan Ridley has done an excellent job of gathering contributors from around the globe who help the reader learn about the use of masks to heal through a fascinating variety of lenses. Such a diverse group of authors, working in many different countries and cultures, makes this book intriguing, lively, and a rich read.”
Dr. Ridley is Professor of Arts Therapy and Counseling and director of the graduate program at WLU. Additionally, she is an artist, educator, and counselor with over 35 years of experience.
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. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
