Seniors present BFA exhibitions

March 23, 2018 - University of Wisconsin-River Falls seniors Gretchen Askew, Joe P. Bertelsen, Emily Holman, and JJ Knapp will present their BFA work in Gallery 101 in the Kleinpell Fine Arts building March 30-April 10. On display will be glass, ceramics, graphic design, printmaking, painting, mixed media two-dimensional works, and three-dimensional sculptures.

Gretchen Askew, of Eden Prairie, has emphases in glass and ceramics. Her thesis show investigates the use of shapes and patterns to convey certain emotions. She enjoys the freedom of working sculpturally in media that is extremely hands-on while combining 2D and 3D techniques.

Joe P. Bertelsen, of Sun Prairie, has emphases in drawing and painting. On display will be digital drawings and paintings featuring members of the art community in River Falls. This series will highlight how personality and a sense of self aren’t limited to personal appearance by rendering the subjects as cats in spaces personalized to fit the subject of the portrait. In addition, there will be paintings of cats engaging in human activities.

Emily Holman, of Hudson, has emphases in graphic design and printmaking. She will exhibit work that encompasses the effects positivity and kindness can have on a person’s daily life through a public service campaign that combines graphic design and printmaking.

JJ Knapp, originally of Chippewa Falls, has emphases in art history and drawing. Knapp will exhibit work that revolves around society’s uncomfortable topics, such as identity, discrimination, and oppression.

A reception is April 6 from 4-7:30 p.m. in Gallery 101. The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public. Regular gallery hours are Monday-Friday from 3-8 p.m. For more information, call the UW-River Falls Art Department at 715-425-3266.