The Newman University Steckline Gallery will present “Division: Contemporary and Traditional Ceramic Work” by artist David Self as the third show of its 2012-2013 season. The exhibit of ceramics, which begins with a Final Friday reception from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 26, will be on display through Nov. 23. Both the reception and admission to the gallery are free and open to the public.
An “Art for Lunch” presentation by Self will be held Tuesday, Oct. 30 from noon to 1 p.m. in the gallery. A light lunch will be served on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests can also bring their lunch. This event is also free and reservations are not required.
Self is currently a ceramics and sculpture instructor at Wichita Heights High School, and is an adjunct ceramic faculty member at Friends University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in art education from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 1994, and a master of fine arts degree from Wichita State University in 1998.
His work has been exhibited in many galleries in the Wichita area, including The Fiber Studio, Gallery XII, City Arts, and Karg Art Glass. His work has also been featured in shows in other cities in Kansas and Oklahoma.
“My approach to making art is to let my personal experiences, emotions, and sensibilities influence every object or pot that I create,” Self said. “I believe relying on past exposures to art forms and techniques has shaped my abilities, and the personal touch seen in my work. Clay is the perfect medium for me to blend these past experiences into my work.
“This work is primarily constructed using clay slabs, but I still find myself drawn to incorporating pieces made using the potter’s wheel, and attempting to find the delicate balance between the two distinctly different approaches in clay. Though the work is intended to serve a sculptural purpose, the utilitarian forms keep me grounded in the medium, appreciating its history and significance.”
The Steckline Gallery is located inside the De Mattias Fine Arts Center on the Newman campus, 3100 McCormick. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by appointment. For more information, call 316-942-4291, ext. 2199.
