MSU to feature ceramic sculpture by Julie Byrne

Morehead State University’s Golding-Yang Art Gallery will present “Blind Eye, Side Eye,” an exhibition of narrative, figurative ceramic sculpture by artist Julie Byrne of Groveport, Ohio. The exhibition will be on display through Sept. 25, with gallery hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Blind Eye, Side Eye” explores themes of balance and imbalance through a cast of characters that are at once vulnerable and humorous. Byrne’s ceramic works use the human form to explore religion, politics, childhood, and identity, prompting viewers to reflect on their own moments of empowerment and vulnerability. Through humor and discomfort, the exhibition highlights art’s role in shaping our understanding of power in the world.

“The objects I make help me remember a specific moment in time,” Byrne said. “While the works were created from drawings, by the time I have finished the object, other concerns have washed over the work and sashayed the finished piece away from my original idea.”

For more than 40 years, Byrne has been developing story-based figurative ceramic works. She often grounds her art in memory.

“My mother used to say that ‘men are rivers and women are wells,’” she explained. “This may refer to the ways in which memory is affected by who we are, and which details of an experience we choose to keep. My work is about what I choose to keep.”

Mike Bowen, director of the Golding-Yang Art Gallery, described the exhibition as engaging and provocative.

“Blind Eye, Side Eye” is full of powerful images of work that is quirky and unsettling at the same time,” Bowen said. “It forces us to think not only about the power balance in our lives, but the power art can have to convey meaning and messages to the viewer.”

In addition to the gallery show, special events will be held during the exhibition:

• Lecture: Sept. 24, 4 p.m.
• Reception: Sept. 24, 5–7 p.m.
• Public Demonstration: Sept. 25, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

For more information about the exhibit, email Bowen at golding.yanggallery@moreheastate.edu or call 304-617-5733.

To learn more about the Department of Communication, Media, Art & Design programs, please email cmad@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2766.