Virtual lecture with artist Steve Brown to open “Spriguns Equinox” exhibit Thursday, Jan. 21
On Thursday, Jan. 21, the artist, curator, and lecturer will speak to campus to discuss his extensive career and introduce his exhibit “Spriguns Equinox,” which will be hosted in the King-Shivell Gallery in the Cannon Student Center.
Brown has displayed his work in locations across the country, from the , where he began exhibiting his work, to , near where he attended college at the University of North Carolina Asheville. He now serves as the director of the Portland, Oregon-based contemporary art gallery Helen’s Costume and as an art practice lecturer at Portland State University.
“His work interested me because of his background as both an artist and curator,” said Michael Iauch, King-Shivell Gallery coordinator and assistant professor of Communication Arts and Design. “Bringing him on campus is a chance to show students how curators provide space and an access point for other artists.”
Iauch, who was a classmate of Brown’s, explained that the “Spriguns Equinox” exhibit deals with the alienation that has accompanied the digital age. Brown’s work demonstrates a nostalgic yearning for a time of mystery, when answers weren’t as easily available.
In addition to small textured paintings and pieces made from materials like cardboard and wood paneling, the exhibit also includes a short video that exposes viewers to “pieces of a narrative that will never be resolved,” according to Iauch.
Bringing professionals to campus to display their work and speak to students is a way to introduce students to the discourse taking place in the larger artistic community. Although guest artists are usually local, the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting switch to virtual presentations has provided an opportunity to expand the reach and connect students with artists from around the country.
The artist lecture and gallery reception will be held on Thursday, Jan. 21, at 11 a.m. in the King-Shivell Gallery. All of campus is invited to attend. “Spriguns Equinox” will be up in the gallery through Feb. 28.
