New Art Gallery Features Work of AU Alums, Opens Feb. 2

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Anderson, Ind. — “Surroundings,” the newest gallery exhibition at Anderson University’s Wilson Gallery will open Feb. 2 with a special opening night event for the public from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The gallery will then be open through March 22. The gallery features the works of three AU alums and current faculty members: Holly Sims, Jeffrey Jackson, and Kameron Robinson. The Wilson Gallery is located inside the Krannert Fine Arts building.

“We are all three looking forward to sharing our creative work that we have done alongside working and teaching at AU this past year,” said Sims. “This show is unique as the three of us share what is common among our creative process as we incorporate our ‘surroundings’, although from varying perspectives and mediums.”

“Surroundings” serves as an exploration of how our environment molds creativity, embodying the profound impact of the artists’ mediums—painter, designer, and ceramicist. Their intentional choices of color and texture weave a tapestry of artistic expressions, transforming the exhibition into a dynamic dialogue. Each stroke, element, and detail chosen reflects a thoughtful response to the world surrounding them, creating a harmonious blend of intention and inspiration. 

Within the exhibited works, both direct and abstracted images of nature unfold as a testament to the artists’ immersion in and influence by the world that envelopes them. This deliberate inclusion encourages viewers to embark on a journey of exploration, not only contemplating the creative potential within their personal surroundings but also appreciating the significance of what they choose to surround themselves with. 

As viewers engage with “Surroundings,” they are prompted to delve into these intentional choices, unraveling the integral threads of the artists’ mediums and professions woven into the fabric of artistic narrative. The beauty and intentionality embedded in their surroundings become apparent, fostering a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationship between art and the world that inspires it.

Sims, an Indiana native, holds a BA in psychology and fine art from Anderson University, and an MFA from the New York Studio School. Passionate about public art, she actively contributes to projects like the Rensselaer Mural Festival and the NBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis. Sims explores diverse mediums, capturing the essence of her surroundings, including recent oil paintings painted en plein air during a cross-country camping trip through the USA’s national parks.

Jackson is an Anderson-born artist and designer. After receiving his BA in visual communication design from Anderson University, he worked a number of years in the screen printing and apparel design industry. He’s now the lead designer for Anderson University and the owner of The Wandering Press, a mobile screen printing and design company. Jackson’s work is a practice of allowing nature to be a teacher, while focusing his awareness on light and shadow to capture depth.

Robinson is the director of East Side Studios, an art studio and ministry of East Side Church of God in Anderson, Indiana. After receiving a BA in fine arts from Anderson University he went on to earn a Master of Arts in intercultural service from Anderson University’s SOT. Using traditional ceramic techniques and found objects, Robinson attempts to ground his artworks with local materials to bring awareness to the simple yet complex natural beauty that surrounds us and to encourage viewers to consider their role within their ecosystem and community.

Anderson University is on a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 20 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult and graduate programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized among top colleges for its business, computer science, cybersecurity, dance, engineering, nursing, and teacher education programs. Anderson University was established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God.