"Masks: New & Old" exhibit reveals artists
Exhibit runs until April 13
The show began with an opening reception March 7 and runs through April 13.
Dan Anderson, EAC president, said the new exhibit is not just for Halloween, and includes a Mexican "Elvis" mask, and other folks artist creations.Other masks include African carved masks and gas masks.
Masks have been around since 20,000 B.C., Anderson said.
"They have two main purposes: to conceal the identity of the wearer, and to be used as a form of protection," Anderson said.
Anderson, curator of the show, said masks are "remarkable works of art."
"This will be a fun show for everyone, especially families and children," Anderson said.
The range of masks runs from those worn for protection in welding and playing baseball, to Halloween masks and ceremonial tribal masks.
"Some are in pristine condition while others, especially the older masks, show wonderful wear and tear," Anderson said.
The masks come from a variety of local and regional collections, including the University Museum at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and several private collectors.
The University Museum is providing the largest group of masks in the exhibit.
Anderson said he was "thrilled" that the University Museum is partnering with EAC to present its some its art.
"It's a wonderful partnership that we hope will allow many people to experience the university's art collection," he said.
The bulk of the 40 masks on loan from SIUE originate from Mexico and Africa, and many in the show are made out of indigenous wood.
"There are also several masks made of clay that have been fired using inventive firing methods," Anderson said.
Many of the masks created for the exhibit, will be for sale, Anderson said.
"About two-thirds of the masks in the exhibit are from collections, and not for sale," he said.
Artists represented at the exhibit include Sarah Broderick, Paul Dresang, Rich Hutton and Dave Thomas, all of Edwardsville.
Other artists from across the country include Holly Ambrose, Robert Brady, Linda Christianson, Judy Onofrio, Michael Stuesse and Richard Wehrs.
Anderson said EAC is planning on partnering with the University Museum again in the future to bring more art to the community. EAC provides an opportunity for people of all ages to come together to broaden their knowledge base, understanding and appreciation for the visual arts and to experience local, national and international exhibitions.
By advocating and supporting creative exchange between artists and the community, the EAC enhances the cultural and economic vitality of the Edwardsville-Glen Carbon area.
For more information, visit www.edwardsvilleartscenter.org.
