Final senior art exhibition of year opens in Nightingale, May 17

Jennifer Brotherton, “Untitled,” charcoal and watercolor, 61’’ x 47’’ (2013.)

 

LA GRANDE, Ore. (EOU) – Eastern Oregon University presents “Exposed,” the third and final senior capstone exhibition of the year, on display in Nightingale Gallery May 17-24.

A reception for artists Jennifer Brotherton, Trevor Durr and Asa Miller is from 6-8 p.m. on the opening day of the exhibition. The students will be showing a variety of ceramic sculpture, drawing, installation, painting and pottery.

“This diverse group of art and artworks coalesce into an exhibit which provides intimate insight into the artists and their work,” said Cory Peeke, gallery director and associate professor of art.

Brotherton is from Union and has focused in the medium of clay throughout her three years at EOU. Her current work consists of large-scale ceramic sculpture and charcoal drawings exploring the psychological and physical challenges faced by today’s youth.

Brotherton’s inspiration originates from societal standards, home life and innocence of young people. She is interested in the intimate moments in which these challenges exist, still-framing the honest emotions and raw reactions of children during confrontations such as conformity, obesity or identity conflict.

Trevor Durr, “Insecurity Cameras,” ceramic, 8.5” x 3.5” x 3.5” (2013).

Durr is from Halfway and began studying art at EOU in the fall of 2009. The graffiti movement has been one of the principal dynamic forces behind his work as both a street and studio artist. His interest in street art, ceramics and combining the two, inspired what is now his current body of work.

Using a witty street art twist and graffiti aesthetics, Durr brings attention to cultural, political and social issues that are often overlooked by many, ranging from social media conflicts to more serious and worldwide issues like the actuality of freedom.

Asa Miller, “Untitled,” ceramic, 5’’ x 20’’ (2013).

Miller is from Spray and began working with ceramics at EOU in 2008. His creations are unlike a painting, photograph or other varieties of fine art. They are meant to be more approachable and develop a deeper relationship with the viewer.

Utilizing the wood fire kiln at EOU, Miller has been creating objects that fulfill a certain purpose, such as a vessel meant for pressurized containment. By constructing pieces that can trick the eye, his recent work also establishes a tone of curiosity and inquiry with the viewer.

The Nightingale Gallery is located in Loso Hall on the EOU campus.  Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For more information visit www.eou.edu/art/nightingale-gallery or “Like” the gallery on Facebook.