William Eickhorst at the Campenella Gallery
The Campenella Gallery in Norrington Center is currently displaying the work of Professor William Eickhorst. This exhibit displays mixed media pieces with subjects such as animals and boats, and some pieces make political statements.
Eickhorst, an adjunct professor of fine art, indicated he didn’t have a particular theme for the exhibition, but that having no clear theme was the intended goal.
In his artist’s statement, he writes, “I am much more interested in exploring the possibilities of different materials and how those materials can be used to fabricate images.”
He said, “Many artists … spend their creative lives in the development of a particular ‘style.’ I personally find such a pursuit to be both boring and tedious.”
That uniqueness shines through in each piece. “Corner Graffiti” shows an abstract photo of graffiti on the side of a building. In “Toy Story,” viewers see meticulous cut photographs of a beloved childhood movie through an abstract lens.
Each piece of work seems to have layers of deeper meaning and shows off Eickhorst’s artistic skill.
Andrea Lee, the director of the Campenella Gallery and assistant professor of art, helped Eickhorst in developing the exhibit. She said it is important for faculty to display artwork as a way to engage with students.
“Art can be a way of communication, expression, political ideas, sense of peace and contemplation. The students being able to see their professors’ work helps to pull them out of their average days in class,” she said.
Furthermore, Lee said professors can also learn and grow their own practice by sharing their work with students.
“My favorite feedback is from my students,” she said.
Seeing the preparation for an exhibit also helps the students to prepare for their senior art exhibits, which are typically on display at the end of the spring and fall semesters.
To see William Eickhorst’s work, visit Norrington Cente. It will be displayed until April 23. The gallery hours are Monday through Thursday 8 a.m.-8p.m., Friday 8 a.m.-4:30p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday 4 p.m.-8 p.m.
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