Ryan Collins '18 on Hookup Culture and Art

February 6, 2019

Ryan Collins (BA - Printmaking and Graphic Design, '18) dedicated her senior thesis to Donna Freitas' "The End of Sex," a book that explores the harmful effects of causal sex, coercive norms in hookup culture, intoxicated sex, and restricting gender roles on college campuses. Ryan read "The End of Sex" in THEO 310 (Marriage and Family) in spring 2018 and displayed her senior thesis in Cohen in December. She recently presented her work to students in THEO 313 (Christian Sexual Ethics), where she explained her process, intention, and desired outcomes for each piece. Students responded with great admiration and affirmation for her work, especially for their ability to spark reflection, discernment, and discussion about sexual identity and intimacy marked by greater respect and responsibility. Many students expressed a desire to have more intentional conversations on campus, in and beyond the classroom. These are important ways to practice “Cura Personalis" and being "Together for Others."