West Chester University (WCU) Staff Photographer and Artist Erica Thompson ’10 is exhibiting her work, Focus Lost and Found and treasures gathered along the way, from Mar. 6 – Apr. 10.

Thompson’s work will be displayed by the Department of Art + Design in Knauer Gallery, Swope Music Building and Performing Arts Center, 817 S. High Street. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Exhibit hours are Monday-Friday from 9 AM – 4 PM. An opening event will take place on Wednesday, Mar. 6, from 4-7 PM.

In Focus Lost and Found Thompson shares a biographical retrospective showcasing personal and professional photography and other work that spans her 30-year career. Some work includes WCU campus photography. Work by Thompson’s parents (also artists) will also be on display.

“Aesthetics played a significant role in my childhood home,” said Thompson. “My memories are of summers assisting in mom’s arts and crafts garage and Saturdays perched on a stool in dad’s basement studio while working at his side. I was raised to relish adventure and to hunt for treasure. At my core I am still that precocious little girl; eternally curious, and craving immersion in the natural world.”

Thompson’s road to photography and art was a circuitous one, and she recalls feeling lost while encountering roadblocks to unlocking her creativity.

“Ultimately, the message I want to convey as patrons walk through the gallery mirrors the daily affirmations I learned to tell myself,” said Thompson. “The world and all living things are beautiful and complex and teach us so many lessons. The camera is a tool that helps me to capture and share what I find beautiful.”

Thompson began working at WCU in 2006 as a Graphic Artist after spending more than 20 years as a Commercial Artist working for various firms in publishing and advertising. She became the official West Chester University Staff Photographer in 2018. She received her BFA at West Chester University in 2010 as an adult. Thompson will retire as the Staff Photographer this spring.

Learn more about West Chester University, the largest member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education, and how it offers a comprehensive public institution offering a diverse range of more than 180 academic opportunities in 40 fields of study across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.