Something for everyone

As usual, this annual exhibit is an eclectic show, with works as varied as can be imagined. From wild modernistic sculpture to oil paintings and photography, representative, surreal and abstract, this is a strong show with many fascinating and well-executed pieces.

In the sculpture department, Justin Van der Mei’s “Impatience,” a ceramic and steel work, features a hollow torso that holds within it a medieval mace (spike and ball), above which floats an angry looking head suspended by a chain—very simple but interesting.

I enjoyed the imaginative prompt in Ian Condon’s “Baggage,” a glass, wood and steel work that, with its old-fashioned vials of strange substances in a wooden rack within a wooden “briefcase,” reminded me of Dr. Jekyll’s overnight kit.

On the 2-D front, I was drawn to “El Toro” by Jason M. Adkins, a phantasmagorical beast that seems to blend influences such as Dalí and Picasso successfully.

I also enjoyed the dramatic energy and powerful style of James R. Eslick’s “Untitled” oil painting. I couldn’t help but be reminded of Van Gogh’s “Wheatfield with Crows,” except here the field has been hit by a tornado and may have caught fire as well.

Then there is Jason Bailey’s “Shamed,” a strangely affecting oil and oil pastel work, depicting a kneeling Buddhist-monk-like figure, with face in hands and blue-green halo about the head. With its almost childlike simplicity, this is an effective piece.

There are many more works than I can mention here, including minimalist metal sculptures, interactive computer exhibits, and some far-out constructions and masks that seem to have a decidedly science fiction feel to them. Check it out.

There will be an awards ceremony on May 11 from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. in PAC 134 and a special gallery reception, including live band, from 8:00 to 10:00 the same evening.