Step into a world where art transcends boundaries and voices resonate with meaning. The Annual Juried Student Exhibition of Matt Rees is set to captivate audiences from January 29 to February 25, 2024. This showcase celebrates the talent and creativity of DePauw emerging artists, happening at Richard E. Peeler Art Center.
Renowned for his woodblock carving and printing expertise, Matt Rees, a local artist hailing from Putnam County, Indiana, brings a unique perspective shaped by his surroundings. Having honed his craft under the guidance of print master Tom Huck in St. Louis, Missouri, Rees launched Wildwood Press, leaving a lasting impact on the artistic landscape.
Among the standout pieces featured in this exhibition is "Can I get a rip?" by Elise Monroe ‘24, a poignant creation crafted from vapes, wood, chicken wire, and clear monofilament. Monroe's artwork takes the shape of lungs, serving as a powerful reminder of the detrimental effects of smoking on the human body. “I’ve always looked around and seen so much vaping and smoking on campus and off, so I knew that I could quickly gather dead vapes from other students,” she said. “I wanted to highlight some of my thoughts on vaping and portray the cage that this habit keeps people in.”
From Madison Montero ‘25's thought-provoking "Enduring Efficiency" to Moe Kennedy ‘24's intriguing "Everything's a Mountain," each artwork offers a glimpse into the diverse narratives and experiences of the student artists.
Whether it's the intricate wire sculpture of Elizabeth Minobe ’27's "Wire Birkenstock" or Chi Nguyen ‘25's evocative "My Saigon, Your Saigon," the exhibition can inspire, provoke, or challenge visitors' perceptions.
As visitors immerse themselves in the creations of Anabella Manzo ‘25, Annette Tran ‘26, Sophia Rivera ‘26, and other talented individuals, they're invited to explore themes of comfort, identity, and societal discourse. From "Confined to Comfort" to "Test Subject #1" and "Bisexual Erasure," these artworks serve as a testament to the power of art in sparking meaningful conversations. “Thanks to Introduction to Ceramics with Professor Brickell, I have had the chance to express myself through a form of art. I wanted the piece to have some sort of gore aspect to mirror the cruel reality of animal testing, especially for cosmetic purposes," Tran shared.
Don't miss the opportunity to experience the Annual Juried Student Exhibition of Matt Rees, where artistry meets authenticity, and every brushstroke tells a story. The exhibit is a journey of discovery and appreciation as we celebrate the boundless creativity thriving within our community.