A new exhibit at the Visual Arts Center is relatable to the community “but not necessarily in a way that is expected when you think ‘Appalachia Identity,’” the gallery director said.
Titled “Piercing Lights, Silent Shadows: Stories of Appalachian,” the exhibit will premier on Oct. 2 and feature art from students Callie Thacker and Dawn Kushner.
“Their works have been made with a contemporary insight and consciousness that l hope will encourage a continued dialogue beyond the Birke Art Gallery,” gallery director Courtney Chapman said in a press release about the event.
Thacker and Kushner received funding for their art from the Undergraduate Creative Discovery and Research Scholar Award program from the university.
Hanna Kozlowski, associate professor and faculty mentor to the two students, said the program is impactful and prepares students for their future artistic endeavors.
“The program not only provides financial support but also encourages personal artistic growth by allowing students to propose and execute a ‘dream project’ — something that has been brewing in their mind (and sketchbook) for some time,” she said in that same press release.
“The selection process is highly competitive and involves writing a detailed, well-researched proposal that is then evaluated and ranked at the college level.”
The Birke Art Gallery is in the Visual Arts Center at 927 3rd Ave. A reception honoring the exhibit will take place on Oct. 12 at 5 p.m. Gallery events are free and available to all.
