Ekphrasis – Image and Word Exhibit open through Sept. 24

Tusculum College’s art exhibit titled “Ekphrasis – Image and Word” will be open through Wednesday, Sept. 24. The exhibition is the work product of 11 students in the senior portfolio and exhibition class in the Art and Design program.

Former Tusculum Professor Clem Allison is credited with having carefully put together a collection of etchings, wood engravings, wood cuts, screenprints and lithographs during his extensive tenure at the College. Last year, Associate Professor of Art Deborah Bryan’s class put together the first exhibition of these prints since 1998, and this year, a very special selection of work has been assembled for display.

Ekphrasis is defined as “a literary description of or commentary on a visual work of art,” according to Bryan. “The word is now used to describe not only visual art influencing words, but also words influencing visual art. It is the latter meaning that is most applicable here, as most of the prints are a response to poetry or prose.”

The exhibit features works from the “Ligature 68” series, Dame Elizabeth Frink’s “Canterbury Tales” etchings and text, screenprint imagery and screenprint annotations from Shakespeare’s “Antony and Cleopatra.”

Dr. Bryan feels that this is an effective way to teach students about professional artistry and exhibition. “The best way to learn to plan, mat, hang, publicize and host a senior exhibition is to do exactly that with a group of colleagues facing the same challenge,” she said.

The exhibit is open to the public and is being held in the Clem Allison Gallery of the Rankin House. Hours are Monday-Friday from 3:30-5 p.m. For more information, contact Dr. Bryan at dbryan@tusculum.edu.