Abilene Christian University's Department of Art and Design has expanded to include the brand new ACU-Cockerell Art Gallery. The gallery, located in downtown Abilene, is a 2,600-square-foot space on Second Street that will be home to a wide variety of exhibits and events, including the performing arts and musical performances.
"Many programs are planned, including a 'Second Sunday' lecture series, the Big Country Collegiate Juried Art Exhibition, traveling exhibits and student and faculty shows," said Dr. Garlan Jenkens, the director of ACU's Shore Art Gallery who will also oversee the operation of the ACU-Cockerell Gallery.
The opening exhibit in the new art gallery is entitled "Double Vision: Ladder Dream Series," and will feature the work of Jack Maxwell, chair of the Department of Art and Design at ACU, and his wife Jill, who is also an artist. The show will contain references to the Jacob's Dream sculpture on ACU's campus, as well as a series of digital collages inspired by 15th-19th century Biblical images and texts.
"All the works in this series are the result of a melding of two creative spirits that are employing technology in a way that could not have been fully realized even a decade ago," said Maxwell. "It is our prayer that the works we create together will allow the viewer to see this old familiar Bible story with fresh eyes, and that the power of its message might be felt anew."
A reception will be held at the new gallery Thursday, Dec. 13, from 5-8 p.m. during the December Artwalk. It is free and open to the public.
The new gallery was partially funded by a grant from the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council, given to help support programs and exhibitions with the Department of Art and Design at ACU.
"With this new gallery, ACU art and design students and faculty will have much more exposure and visibility," said Jenkens. "I'm excited about the coming year."
If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact ACU's Public Relations Office or call (325) 674-2696.
