Artists specializing in new media invite viewers to explore multiple layers of meaning through the works of emerging.poetic. The exhibition is on view now through September 24 at Brick City Gallery.
The collection of work is the first of its kind for the gallery, as it is the first show under current Director of Exhibitions Jodi McCoy made up entirely of new media. The digital element to this collection creates a truly immersive experience by pairing the visual aspects of the artwork with audio and interaction through movement. The result is an almost transcendent quality as the works step beyond the typical elements of traditional art forms.
Curated by Associate Professor Colby Jennings, the exhibition features works by Joe Hedges, Reza Safavi, and Monika Weiss that utilize sound, video, and interactive displays in ways that encourage viewers to consider the relationship between time, technology, and the natural world. “I wanted to put together something that incorporated new media in some way, but I’m also really driven in my own work by poetry—not just particular poems but the practice of poetics, being able to make words or phrases mean far more than the sum of their parts,” explains Colby. He adds, “All of the works were selected to provide opportunities for contemplation. This is definitely an opportunity for slow viewing.” For those looking to consider the works with a group, the exhibition happens to be featured for the first Slow Viewing night of the Fall 2021 semester on September 22.
Different artistic takes on the exhibition’s theme are presented in several forms. In the East Gallery, visitors experience the mixed-media work of Joe Hedges, combining paintings with digital media, along with Reva Safavi’s interactive projection. Also in the East Gallery are two screens showing a collection of GIFs by a number of artists that explore various interpretations of “the poetic.” The West Gallery acts as a viewing room for a new piece by Monika Weiss that incorporates sound and projected video of choreographed movement.
Just as a short poem can reveal deeper meaning when a reader slows down to consider the intention behind the words, additional impact can be found in the artwork of emerging.poetic when viewers slow down to take in the separate qualities of each piece.
emerging.poetic is on view at Brick City Gallery through September 24. Slow Viewing for emerging.poetic takes place Wednesday, September 22 from 4:30–5:30 PM.
Brick City Gallery is located at 215 W. Mill Street, Springfield, MO 65806. The galleries can be visited Monday–Friday 11 AM–6 PM and Saturday 11 AM–4 PM. Call 417-837-2330 for additional details. Please wear a mask and practice safe distancing when visiting the gallery.
Taylor Ladd is a graduate assistant for the Department of Art + Design. She is working towards her master’s degree in writing at Missouri State University with professional interests in writing about art, culture, and food.