For Abby Sitarik, ’25, life is in the details. “If you can’t do the little things right, you’ll never be able to do the big things,” said Sitarik. “The little details add up to the big picture.”
The big picture is something the fine arts minor knows a thing or two about—from Fine Arts Club president to gallery tour guide, Sitarik has made the most of The Citadel’s creative outlets. A history major and Marine Corps contract, Sitarik found her passion during her sophomore year in a combat art class taught by retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Craig Streeter. While an interest in the arts led her to the classroom, the guidance and mentorship of combat artists fostered Sitarik’s development both inside and outside of the studio.
Sitarik began studying the work of Marine Combat Artist Kris Battles as a sophomore. Early in her senior year, she met Battles at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, where he serves as the artist in residence. “Meeting him at the museum during OCS this past August, just after undergoing my initial Marine training, was incredibly impactful,” said Sitarik. “It brought to life the essential connection between art and military service: art immortalizes the history of the Marine Corps and honors the individuals who serve.”
Sitarik also had the opportunity to connect with U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Charles Baumann. “I really appreciate how he showed me how to apply visually what he’s learned as a combat artist and how that impacts him as an officer in the Marine Corps, knowing that attention to detail really matters,” said Sitarik. “Through his meaningful mentorship, briefs and casual conversations, like our chats in Starbucks after an open mic fine arts event, he showed me firsthand how art powerfully bridges military service and storytelling.”
A tour guide in the Winfred B. Moore, Jr., Art Gallery in Capers Hall, Sitarik was able to tell part of that story herself, leading visitors and students through the Marine Corps aviation art display, a temporary exhibit on loan from the National Museum of the Marine Corps.