Exhibit brings artistic circus to town

  Monday, March 30, 2015 2:00 AM
  News

Pittsburg, KS

The circus has come to Pittsburg State University in the form of a new solo art exhibition in PSU’s University Gallery in Porter Hall. “A Magnificent Migration” by artist Ariel Bowman continues in the gallery through May 2nd. The artist will discuss her word at 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, in Room 301 Russ Hall.

Bowman’s work, including ceramics and drawings, includes bizarre sideshow acts, flying-trapeze artist, elephants, clowns, and jugglers.

“Colors and intricate patterns are fading; the paint peels and wood rots away under heavy feet and wrinkled hide,” Bowman said of her work. “These sculptures express the joy I find in the animal form, and lavish decorations celebrate them as the greatest show on earth.”

Bowman earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts degree from the Kansas City Art Institute, where she majored in ceramics. While in school, she studied abroad at the International Ceramics Studio in Hungary and was awarded the Regina K. Brown NCECA undergraduate fellowship. Since finishing her education, Bowman has been an artist in residence at the Armory Art Center and her work has been collected by the Kamm Teapot Foundation, the Belger Arts Center, and the Kolva-Sullivan Collection.

Rhona McBain, chair of PSU’s Department of Art and director for PSU’s Museum of Art, said the circus-themed exhibition brings the age-old entertainment form to life for all ages and is the perfect exhibit to pair with Family Art Day, which runs from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, in Porter Hall.

Family Art Day, coordinated by PSU Associate Professor of Art Josie Mai, is designed for families with children ages 5-12. The children and their families can tour PSU’s three art galleries and make a take-home art project as well as participate in a collaborative art project. It is free and open to the public.

PSU’s University Gallery is located in Porter Hall, 202 E. Cleveland, in Pittsburg and is open from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admission is free.

For more information on the exhibit, the artist’s talk or Family Art Day, contact the PSU Department of Art at 620-235-4302, www.pittstate.edu/art.