The annual art exhibit, which runs through September 18, features works by Parkland’s own Fine and Applied Arts department faculty in Art and Design, in sculpture, photography, metals, wood, oil, watercolor, digital media, ceramics, and other media.

In celebration of exhibit artists, a reception, with live music by The Dynamic Duo, will be held on Thursday, August 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the gallery lounge. This reception allows the public to mingle with the artists and also features a talk by Berti about his work at 7 p.m.

As always, the exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Approximately 20 faculty studio artists in various media are participating in this year’s exhibition. Art enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy the versatility of the works on display, which mirrors the broad spectrum of art courses available at Parkland College. Participating artists include Louis Ballard, Chris Berti, Kiley Reed Black, Lisa Costello, Marsha Daniels, Jennifer Davis, Judy Dethmers, Larry Ecker, Stacey Gross, John Havlik, Bryan Heaton, Steven Hudson, Jamie Kruidenier, Robert Laible, Melinda McIntosh, Craig McMonigal, Laura O’Donnell, Denise Seif, Peggy Shaw, Phil Smith, Joan Stolz, Wendy VanderNoordaa, Matthew Watt, Kelly White, and Paul Young.

A series of art lectures has been planned to coincide with the exhibit. These “High Noon with the Artist” lectures in the gallery allow faculty from selected areas to offer more in-depth discussions of their work. Depending on the question-and-answer portion, these events, which start at noon, should last a half hour to 45 minutes. On September 9, drawing and design instructor Melinda McIntosh will provide a lecture while Ecker, an instructor in graphic design, will present a talk about his work on September 15.

Fall gallery hours are Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Monday - Thursday, 6 - 8 p.m.; and Saturday, noon - 2 p.m. The gallery will be closed on Monday, September 6 for Labor Day.

To find the gallery when classes are in session, we suggest using the M6 parking lot on the north corner of the campus. Enter through any door and follow the ramps uphill to the highest point of the first floor, where the gallery is located. The gallery windows overlook the outdoor fountain area.

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency. Parkland is a section 504/ADA-compliant institution. For accommodation, call 217/351-2505.