On Thursday, Feb. 6, Professor of Art Christopher Nadaskay gave the closing lecture of his art exhibit titled “Images of Grace.”
The featured pieces reflected the grace of God and the beauty of His creation. Elements of creation that were depicted included leaves, rust, clouds, water and earth.
As part of the Lord’s creation, Nadaskay wanted to use his work to point back to the ultimate Creator. Nadaskay emphasized how an artists’ work is a reflection of themselves as well as an opportunity in spite of the sin of humanity.
“We have the ability as artists to take what we once ruined and redeem it,” said Nadaskay.
The unifying factor throughout the exhibit was the presence of molded hands, signifying humanity’s need for grace from the Lord.
In a piece titled “Grace,” Nadaskay made a clay mold of his face with a stone placed inside, meant to symbolize Jesus. Nadaskay’s intent is to leave the piece outside and let it be corroded by nature, eventually revealing the representation of Christ as what remains.
“The main thing I got out of it is there’s something more out of everything we see,” said junior art major Ashley Thompson.
Another piece, titled “Earth,” was created in collaboration with Union alum Abigail Wolfzorn Ruby. After Nadaskay completed the work to his satisfaction, he handed the piece off to Ruby to add her own style and elements to the piece.
All of the work from the exhibit is for sale, and all of the proceeds will benefit Scarlet Rope Project, a nonprofit based in Jackson committed to helping victims of sex trafficking.
Following the lecture was a gallery reception, where attendees could view the work and ask Nadaskay any further questions.
Each of the pieces in the exhibit were made with a different medium, a reflection of the versatility that Nadaskay is instilling in Union’s art department.
Photos courtesy of Neil Cole
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