The work of artist Ellen Hill is on display in the Kevin Manning Academic Center art gallery, located on the second floor by the elevators.
Steven Scott Gallery, in Fells Point, Md., represents Hill, who lives just outside of Washington D.C. According to Matt Laumann, director of cultural programs and exhibitions, the work of Hill will remain in the space until the end of May.
The exhibit, “Natural Designs,” shows Hill’s respect for nature and the patterns found in it. Hill’s artist statement says that her work “is a personal response to [her] experiences and [her] natural environment,” according to Steven Scott Gallery’s website.
Most of the work in the exhibit is acrylic paint, ink and carved birch on panels. Hill uses acrylic paint and ink on the birch, which she then cuts to make elaborate designs. Hill works with wood “because it has a warmth and history that it carries with it, and it reflects [her] strong respect for nature,” according to Steven Scott Gallery’s website.
The cultural programs and exhibitions department chose Hill for the exhibit because of her connection with the Steven Scott Gallery. Scott is a friend of the university and suggested Hill when there was an opening for an exhibit in the KMAC space.
Stevenson hosts 12 to 16 art exhibits each year, and each is typically selected 12 to 18 months in advance. The cultural programs and exhibitions department works to provide a diverse series of exhibits each year, selecting a wide variety of artists, media and themes, explained Laumann.
The advisory board for the cultural programs and exhibitions chooses artists through recommendations and artist submissions. When selecting artists, the board examines what artist works best for the space, how the artwork connects to the curriculum and how it might relate to the different majors in the School of Design, according to Laumann. The board is always evaluating the exhibitions, looking for diverse perspectives and searching for artists to partner with for future events.
Other art exhibits on campus are located in the lobby of the School of Design, Greenspring Art Gallery and St. Paul Companies Pavilion.
Some of Hill’s work in the exhibit is available for purchase. Those interested in purchasing the art can contact Laumann through campus email.
