The Palitz Gallery at Syracuse University’s Lubin House in New York City is presenting “Those Who Can: New Work from the School of Art and Design.” The exhibit, which runs through Sept. 13, features recent work from Department of Foundation faculty members in SU’s College of Visual and Performing Arts. The 10 works included in the exhibition represent the range of processes utilized by artists today, including digital, oil painting, works on paper, photography, sculpture and interactive art.
The works of the six artists—Susan D’Amato, Juan Juarez, Jude Lewis, Sarah McCoubrey, Joanna Spitzner and Chris Wildrick—exemplify the strength of a department that heavily influences many of the young artists studying in the School of Art and Design. Defying the adage that “those who can’t … teach,” the six faculty members included in “Those Who Can” demonstrate that being an effective educator can coincide with success as an artist.
Drawing is a fundamental aspect of artistic study, and the larger-than-life drawings of D’Amato and landscape paintings of McCoubrey effectively illustrate a mastery of observational and compositional skill. The elements of design are represented by Wildrick and Juarez, whose series “Geek Culture” by Wildrick and “Suspension” by Juarez, align conceptual ideas with digital tools. Lewis’ “Georgia on My Mind,” a wall-mounted sculpture referencing the work of Georgia O’Keefe, signifies the marriage of contemporary notions with traditional craftsmanship and skill when working in 3-D. The elements of performance, site-specific installation and new media are implemented by Spitzner in “Common Acts,” engaging the viewer to become part of the project.
Exhibition hours are Monday to Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The exhibition will be closed Labor Day weekend. It is free and open to the public. Visit http://lubinhouse.syr.edu/palitzgallery/current.html to learn more about this exhibit. You can also call (212) 826-0320 or email lubin@syr.edu for more information.
