Opening Reception of Invasive Species, Transformation, and Aquatic Kaleidoscope during First Friday Art Walk

Lubeznik Center for the Arts will hold an opening reception for its new exhibits Invasive Species, Transformation, and Aquatic Kaleidoscope. Invasive Species...The Art of Upcycling (Hyndman Gallery) features artwork by Michael Dinges, Victoria Fuller, Alan Emerson Hicks, Valerie Mann, Chris Silva, and Bryan Sperry that crosses boundaries between environmentalism and art. Transformation (North View Gallery) features an installation by Jan Dean, transforming Styrofoam packing. Aquatic Kaleidoscope (Brincka-Cross Gallery) by Renee Robbins features paintings that explore the juxtaposition of flora and fauna. Light refreshments will be served.

Invasive Species...The Art of Upcycling is a resurgence in the "ready-made" art practice made popular by Dada artists Duchamp and Man Ray, "upcycling" makes use of discarded materials and transforms them into beautiful objects without breaking down the material. And a special thanks to our exhibit sponsors Michigan City LaPorte Convention & Visitor's Bureau, NECA Northern Indiana Chapter, and WNIT television.

Transformation explores the paradox and psychology found in material culture. The work draws from the meeting of Western culture and Eastern philosophies. Dean builds an environment using materials that are enchanting, yet intended for disposal. It is a contemplation on how we fit together, what binds to us and what is created in the process.

Aquatic Kaleidoscope painting's draw from nature and examines microscopic and telescopic relationships. The work pulls molecular, biological, aquatic, and celestial systems. The paintings move seamlessly between the real and the imagined.

Lubeznik Center for the Arts is located at 101 W. 2nd St., at the lakefront in Michigan City, IN. Gallery weekday hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (CDT). Weekend hours are from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM (CDT). Summer hours from 2-7pm on Thursdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day. For more information please visit www.lubeznikcenter.org or call 219-874-4900.

Provided with support from South Shore Arts, the Indiana Arts Commission, a state agency, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.