Exhibit shows artistic legacy

Legacy lives in the form of art at “SU Visual Arts Faculty: Past and Present” Exhibition. The legacy of Southern University lives in works exhibited by former visual arts faculty and nationally known artists Frank Hayden, Jean Paul Hubbard, and Harold G. Cureau.
“This is a very special exhibition. This is the third annual homecoming exhibition.
This says that homecoming is more than the sports of it all. Not just the academic ideas but, the cultural experience as well. The elevation from that experience is all a part of that,” said Joyce O’Rourke, Dean of SU College of Arts and Humanities.
O’Rourke described the way and form the art takes in writing the history of the SU department of visual and performing arts.
“This is a wonderful exhibition that is a testimony to the legacy of this department of visual and performing arts. That legacy is a reflection of perspectives to come and the traditions of growth that we have had in terms of faculty and students. The education and cultural experience at Southern, this exhibit affords all of us an opportunity to realize how art touches all of our lives,” said O’Rourke.
Jean Paul Hubbard, Frank Hayden, Harold G. Cureau, Cheryl McKay Dixon, Marty Blade, Jason Daniel, and Annette Williams were past faculty whose works were exhibited.
“Jean Paul Hubbard  came to Southern in 1952. Untitled piece was lent to the exhibition by Dr. Huel Perkins, former dean of arts and humanities,” said Robert Cox, Director of SU Visual Arts Gallery.
O’Rourke and Cox spoke to opening attendees about their feelings concerning the exhibit.
I am just as excited about this exhibit as if one of my teachers were on the wall. This is a beautiful testimony of what art is all about. Look around and feel the wonderful spirit of the art that is here,” said O’Rourke.
Cox shared his enthusiasm about exhibiting his own work in the company of works by nationally and internationally recognized artists.
“Personally this is a very exciting exhibit for me. This is a memorable moment and occasion. These are artists that are outstanding and have made significant contributions to the field,” said Cox.
Randell Henry, current associate professor and faculty exhibitor described his work, process, and what a person may see in his work.
“My art is a mixture of cubism and abstract expression. Picasso inspired me; I studied his works and abstract expressionism and combine the two together. Everything is cohesive and has a connectedness. I know it’s finished when it’s all connected. I use improvisation like a jazz musician,” said Henry.
Henry hopes that his work will look different each time it is revisited and strike a new chord in each viewer.
“The best way to view it is to look at it one time walk away and then come back and look at it again. You see it differently. I hope you feel as though the painting is renewing itself over and over again,” said Henry.
Anne Bigger, current associate professor and faculty exhibit artist described her inspirations and process from getting from her mind to the canvas.
“I’m currently interested in classical themes. I think it’s from spending time with these artifacts. It seems strange to some that I would make a painting of a sculpture but, I think the sculpture is beautiful. I let my imagination go it’s not all factual. If I see something that catches my attention I’ll make a sketch or a snapshot. When I get home I take the idea and I shift it,” said Bigger.
Cox thanked Cureau, former faculty and wife of Harold G. Cureau for helping him acquire the art for the gallery.
“Dr. Cureau was very helpful in helping me to organize this exhibition. Helping me to make contact with those who could lend work to us. Historically I can say that this gallery is a result of her efforts. I’m proud to say she was the one who hired me,” said Cox.
Cureau, former faculty member contributed to the department planning and creating the gallery used in this and the last two year’s exhibits.
“It’s so wonderful to see such a large crowd to enjoy all of this wonderful art. When my husband first came to Southern one of his personal goals was to have an art gallery. It was a great pleasure to work with several faculty members. Availing the expertise and talent of both present and past faculty members. Pass the word around and tell people to see this exhibit.   I look forward to seeing many more exhibits in this very beautiful space,” said Cureau.
The exhibition opening included an artist’s market and refreshments. Dr. Joyce Turner-Keller and Cureau helped to acquire works and refreshments for the reception. The Coalition of 100 black women of greater Baton Rouge, Stamp of Hope Community garden, R. Armstead seafood, and Gilded Lily donated for the reception.
Marty Blade and Jason Daniel, former faculty members were unable to make the opening but sent their works to be displayed in the exhibition.
The Department of Visual Arts has an account with the system foundation and anyone can make donations to benefit the gallery, students, and faculty in that department.