The abstract art movement began in the early twentieth century and has evolved to this day to a very broad array of art forms used. Basically it is known as a way to self-express in a very freed up way, which coincides with current themes in history today.

Curated by Ann Stoddard, Gallery Director and College Curator of Harper Gallery, “Abstract Invitational” brings works to the Harper Gallery of a wide range of self-expression through the broad art movement of the abstract genre. Artists’ works in this exhibit use traditional media for their “abstract” art works in this colorful exhibit which includes the whimsical glassworks by renown glass artist Robert Levin; the thought provoking capricious works on paper by Felicia van Bork; the flirtatious painterly color swirls of Linda Hudgins; the importantly defined brilliantly colored shaped canvases of Dale McEntire; the dynamic stormy paintings by Christopher Rico and the contrasting methodical and deliberately calculating rhythmic geometric paintings by Martyn Bouskila, surreal ceramic concoctions by Daniel Bare and Valerie Zimany’s erotic clay sculptures.

This exhibit of works by artists working in their personal visual language to express and celebrate thought provoking self expressions released into an abstract and removed art form is one to visit many times to view, study and explore your own interpretations.

A visit to PC should include a stop at the Harper Center Gallery to experience this exhibit and others.  The Harper Center Gallery hosts four exhibits each year — two exhibits of work from nationally recognized artists, the Senior Art Major Exhibit and the Annual Student Exhibit. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday from noon – 5 p.m.; admission to the gallery is free.

Presbyterian College is located between Columbia and Greenville, S.C.

– article submitted by Ann Stoddard