“Perceptions of Reality,” a collaborative juried event curated by Dr. Barbara and Leroy Hodges opens this weekend at Todd Art Gallery, MTSU’s visual arts center. This synergistic showcase features a diverse group of local, regional, and nationally recognized yet underrepresented artists, each with their unique stories and perspectives. This is the latest in a series of summer exhibitions at MTSU featuring African American artists, and will be on display from Saturday, July 27, to Saturday, August 17.
An opening reception is scheduled for Saturday, July 27, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees will be able to view the art and meet and talk with the artists involved. Participating artists include (alphabetically): Daniel Arite, Higgins Bond, Omari Booker, Ashley Buchanan, Ella Buntin, Gail Clemons, Mariah Clemons, Kimberly Dummons, Samuel L. Dunson, Dalia Garcia, Samira Hardcastle, La’Asia Harris, Barbara Hodges, Leroy Hodges, Jr., Sisavanh Houghton, Dayo Johnson, Henry Jones, Lester V. Jones, Neely Jordan, DaShawn Lewis, Kimberly Manson, Alexandra Martinez, Michael McBride, Drew Morrison, Michael Mucker, Jimmy Mumford, Robert Orr, Jr., Mamta Patel, Yakruti Patel, Xavier Payne, Destiney Powell, Jairo Prado, Tony Rodriguez, Matthew D. Schultz, Thandiwe Shiphrah, James Threalkill, Ruben Torres, Tricia Townes, Jennifer Tweedie, Liliana Velez, Mary R. Wakins, Carlton Wilkinson, Donna Woodley.
The exhibit aims to bridge the gap between reality and perception while addressing pressing issues such as education reform, culture, PTSD, social media, environment, civil rights, politics, and artificial intelligence (AI). It further encourages viewers to think outside the classroom, outside themselves, and outside the box.
The showcased works are bold and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on various societal issues. Expect to engage in a vibrant dialogue and ongoing conversations about reality and perception that are crucial in today’s world. Art enthusiasts, activists, and the public are encouraged to visit this compelling exhibition, which will inspire, provoke, and encourage new perspectives and leave a lasting impact on all who attend.
Todd Art Gallery exhibits, receptions, and workshops are free and open to the public at the heart of the MTSU campus in Todd Hall, Room 224A, for an enriching and memorable experience. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by special appointment. The Gallery is closed on Sundays, during exhibition installations, and for all state, federal, and university holidays. Free parking is available across the campus on Saturdays. For more information about MTSU Art and Design, Todd Art Gallery, please visit: https://w1.mtsu.edu/art/ or call 615-898-5532.
A special note: WeGo provides low-cost, hassle-free bus service from the downtown Nashville Elizabeth Duff Transit Center (at 400 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. next to Municipal Auditorium) to the MTSU Campus Mondays through Fridays. Departing/arriving at 6:18/7:26 am, 7:50/9:00 am, 9:20/10:30 am, 10:40/11:51 am, 12:05/1:22 pm and 1:40/2:57 pm (with 4 more later arrivals), giving you time to visit the gallery. Return trips departures/arrivals at 9:15/10:30 am, 10:40/11:55 am, 12:05/1:25 pm, 1:40/3:00 pm, 3:15/4:35 pm and 5:25/6:40 pm return you to Nashville hassle-free, without traffic worries. QuickTicket or exact cash required. A temporary stop is now in use at Faulkinberry Drive next to MTSU Alumni Memoral Gym, a short 8 minute walk to and from Todd Hall, less than half a mile away.
