Bo Bartlett Center to Showcase Two Compelling Art Exhibitions This January
Columbus State University’s Bo Bartlett Center is set to debut two thought-provoking exhibitions on January 18, 2025, offering audiences a chance to explore the profound intersections of literature, nature, and artistic expression.
Eye of the Blackbird
Curated by Craig Drennen, this exhibition draws inspiration from Wallace Stevens’ 1917 poem, Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird. Featuring over 30 works by 10 artists, it delves into the intricate relationship between sight, thought, and creativity.
Highlights include:
- Colleen Asper: Blending painting and performance.
- Adam Winnie: Exploring themes of the unseen.
Together, these works demonstrate how observation shapes our understanding of the visual world and showcases the inseparable connection between looking and thinking in artistic expression.
Women of the Pacific Northwest
This exhibition celebrates the impactful contributions of women artists, featuring 21 works across diverse mediums such as painting, sculpture, and installation.
Themes explored include:
- Nature and its transformative power.
- Culture and society’s influence on artistic expression.
The showcase reflects the distinctive traditions of the Pacific Northwest and emphasizes the dynamic interplay between environment and creativity.
A Word from the Director
“With Eye of the Blackbird and Women of the Pacific Northwest, we’re thrilled to present exhibitions that delve into the complexities of the visual world,” said Mike McFalls, director of The Bo Bartlett Center. “These shows highlight the diversity of artistic expression and the power of art to challenge, inspire, and provoke thought.”
Opening Events and Discussions
- February 5, 2025: Public opening reception at 6:30 p.m.
- Preceded by an artist panel for Women of the Pacific Northwest at 5:30 p.m.
- March 6, 2025: Artist panel discussion for Eye of the Blackbird at 6 p.m.
Exhibition Details
- Dates: January 18 – April 26, 2025.
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Closed on holidays).
- Admission: Free to the public.
For more information, visit bartlettcenter.columbusstate.edu.
About The Bo Bartlett Center
Located in Uptown Columbus on Columbus State University’s RiverPark Campus, The Bo Bartlett Center is an 18,000-square-foot space serving as a gallery, experimental arts incubator, and community hub. The center hosts six to eight rotating exhibitions annually, alongside a permanent collection of Bo Bartlett’s works and archival materials.