A new semester brings new art exhibits to the AU Museum at the Katzen Arts Center. Six exhibits opened Sept. 3, showcasing diverse styles and mediums. Five of the six exhibits will run until Dec. 14, with the exception of Bruce Connor’s, which is closing on Oct. 23.
“Inner Piece: Works from the Heather and Tony Podesta Collection”
This exhibit includes photos from Laurel Nakadate that depict a woman “entangled in emotional situations,” according to AU Museum resources, and Clare Langan’s artistic expressions of natural landscapes. Also featured in this collection are painter Julie Roberts and Spanish artist Pilar Albarracín.
“The exhibitions brings together artists rarely — if ever — shown in Washington, D.C.,” said Jack Rasmussen, director and curator of the American University Museum.
“Re-viewing Documentary: The Photographic Life of Louise Rosskam”
The work of Rosskam, a pioneer in the golden age of American documentary photography of the 1930s and ’40s is examined within this exhibit. Emphasis is placed on his work in Southwest D.C. and his illustration of the social and economical growth in Puerto Rico, according to AU Museum resources.
“Bruce Conner: An Anonymous Memorial”
Fitting in with a topical message is “Bruce Conner: An Anonymous Memorial” which is in dedication to the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. The artist was listening to the radio when the two airplanes hit the World Trade Center, and created a scroll inkblot drawing with two leaves falling, according to the AU Museum website. The next day, another piece with three leaves falling was created, then four the next day, eventually becoming the basis for the collection.
“Wayne Barrar: An Expanding Subterra”
On a different literal level altogether, Wayne Barrar depicts the life “down under.” His work is a collection of photographs all from underground worksites including mines, power stations and subways. Much of his work is focused on areas in South Australia, as well as the Midwest.
“Gifts of Duncan Phillips” The fifth exhibit is a collection of works to serve as a tribute to Phillips, an individual who played a major role in the development of AU’s Art Department. The exhibit is a collection of pieces he gave directly and indirectly to AU’s Watkins Memorial Collection and pieces from the Art Department’s early faculty members, according to AU Museum resources.
“Seismic Dream” The final exhibit is located in the Sylvia Berlin Katzen Sculpture Garden. The artwork of Pattie Porter Firestone is the first to have a sound component to the exhibit in the sculpture garden. The sound element was composed by Barbara Buchanan and creates a unique experience engaging both the eyes and ears.
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