New Art Exhibition Asks What It Means to Exist

A piece in the Voyage of Life exhibit.

A piece in the “Voyage of Life” exhibit.

Taylor Isaac, Staff Reporter

Combining modern technology with environmental elements, the latest sculptural exhibit to premiere at Marshall’s Visual Arts Center pushes the boundaries of art and existence. 

“Voyage of Life” is a sculptural exhibition created by artists Chris Mahonski and Eli Kessler. The installation features a variety of techniques, such as metal fabrication, woodworking and digital fabrication, in addition to biological specimens and geological forms. 

Mahonski’s four sculptures and Kessler’s six works drew inspiration from the tension between ecological and social-cultural developments across time. With their art, they say they hope to illustrate the growing imbalance between history and materiality.

“When combined, the works examine existence within a world of hyper-digital industrialization and ecological uncertainty by incorporating subject matter and materials from a timespan predating humanity to contemporary,” Kessler said.

Debuting on Tuesday, Jan. 17, the “Voyage of Life” exhibition will remain open through the following month. The installation plans to conclude with an artist talk from Mahonski and Kessler on Thursday, Feb. 9 from 5 to 6 p.m. A reception will follow shortly after, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. 

Admission is free to the public for both the gallery and reception. The “Voyage of Life” exhibition can be visited during gallery hours—from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday—at the Charles W. And Norma C. Carroll Gallery located at 927 Third Ave.