CVA exhibit combines old and new styles

A new exhibit at the Center for the Visual Arts main gallery features works that combine modern technology and traditional techniques. 

The Half & Half summer art show is hosted by the Toledo chapter of the AIGA, formerly the American Institute of Graphic Arts. Artists were challenged to create “digital and of the hand” pieces.

As long as they stuck to this rule, artists were allowed to select their own themes and media.

According to CVA Gallery Director Ben Pond, the AIGA committee wanted to put together a show that would feature a new approach to art highlighting new practices.

“We want students to see the show and become more open to new ideas,” he said.

Matt Rowland is the community outreach chair for Toledo’s AIGA chapter and a member of the show’s organizing committee. He said the 41 featured artists provide a wide range of topics that can resonate with everyone. 

Selected compositions include a 3-D sculpture of a head to paintings made using peanut butter and chocolate.  

A painting by artist and former UT art instructor Dan Hernandez looks like a simple painting from a distance but is filled with small details, including Super Mario clouds and trees alongside an image of Jesus kneeling. The combination is odd and striking, and it encourages viewers to search for more hidden characters.  

A piece featuring inspirational quotes such as “The first step to success is to believe in it,” presents them in Twitter format. The layout of the art is presented in a way that will attract the younger generation and convey a strong message.  

Both Pond and Rowland said they were pleased with how the show turned out.