2024 Art and Design Faculty Exhibition Opens in August
2024 Art and Design Faculty Exhibition opens Aug. 19.
Giertz Gallery at Parkland College proudly presents the 2024 Art and Design Faculty Exhibition, opening Monday, Aug. 19.
This annual showcase featuring the work of Parkland's faculty artists runs through Sept. 28 and includes painting, drawing, ceramics, metalsmithing, photography, and video. Exhibiting faculty members include Shawn Fairchild, Travis Keller, Paula McCarty, Melinda McIntosh, Josh Schutz, Denise Seif, Peg Shaw, and Matthew Watt.
An opening reception for the artists will take place on Thursday, Aug. 22, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., including opening remarks by Joe Walwick, dean of Arts and Sciences, and a gallery talk at 6:15 p.m. by new ceramics faculty member Josh Schutz. The 2024 Art and Design Faculty Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.
Josh Schutz, born in La Crosse, Wisconsin, is a figurative ceramic sculptor and potter. After receiving his MFA from New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University, he most recently lived and worked in Brooklyn, N.Y. His work includes diverse processes including working on the wheel, rolling and building with coils, 3-D printing clay, and making molds.
Schutz reflected on his current abstract figurative sculptures. "These new pieces represent historical narratives and explore the representation of gender and sexuality throughout history, all through the lens of queer perception," he said. "I hope to open new avenues for exploration and understanding, ultimately challenging the norms that shape our lives and homes. My art invites you to question, to reflect, and to celebrate the beautiful complexities of being human."
Fall gallery hours are Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturday, noon to 2 p.m. The gallery will be closed Monday, September 2, for Labor Day.
To find the gallery when campus is in session, we suggest using the M6 parking lot on the north corner of campus. Enter through door X7, turn left, and follow the ramps uphill to the highest point on the first floor, where the gallery is located. The gallery windows overlook the outdoor fountain area.
Giertz Gallery acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. All events in the accessible gallery are free and open to the public. Parkland College is a Section 504/ADA-compliant institution. For accommodation, call 217/353-2338 or email accessibilityservices@parkland.edu.