from staff
This year celebrates the 15th annual “Through Our Eyes” exhibit at the Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum where artists are answering the question, “What’s Goin’ On?” a title from one of Marvin Gaye’s classic albums.
Artists in Jacksonville who have been part of the 15-year “Through Our Eyes” movement have come to use the annual exhibit as an opportunity to explore new territory, experiment with techniques and materials, take risks and engage the public in unique ways, said Lydia P. Stewart, exhibit curator.
This year’s exhibit, “Through Our Eyes 2007: What’s Goin’ On?” runs from May 10-July 20 at the Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum. The exhibit features the work of 24 artists who are in the forefront of challenging many of the traditional conceptions of the role of the artist and changing the nature of the gallery experience for visitors.
In response to the question, “What’s Goin On?”, each artist has drawn upon his or her own emotional triggers to the world around them. Whether positive or negative, they have created work that reflects opinion, registers protest, reveals aspirations, ignites passion and interprets reality.
At any point in time, artists have used their creative talents to answer the question, “What’s Goin’ On?” by recording history, reflecting current events or even projecting their visions of the future.
Artist Gil Mayers, a veteran of past shows whose work is always punctuated with satirical wit, uses comic book art as a graphic medium to introduce his concerns. Tiffany Rodriguez, a student at the Savannah College of Art and Design, has created an interactive installation consisting of miniature time capsules containing messages for future generations. Daniel Wynn’s larger-than-life stainless steel sculpture reveals yet another dimension of this visionary artist.
Their work will be featured in live performances during the many open gallery activities scheduled throughout the show. Gallery talks, workshops and an artists’ marketplace will also be scheduled.
For more information, call 904-632-5555.