Hickory – ATAC Gallery is pleased to announce the opening of Examine the Past, Create the Future, a powerful solo exhibition by acclaimed artist Joan E Gardner. The exhibition opens on September 19 with a reception from 5 – 9pm and runs through October 17.
Gardner’s compelling body of work reflects the tumultuous nature of our current times, presenting social issues through both literal and metaphorical artistic expressions. Drawing inspiration from Picasso’s assertion that “Art is a lie that makes us realize the truth,” Gardner creates work that promotes thoughtful reflection and conversation designed to inspire action.
“My goal is to promote thoughtful reflection and conversation that will lead to action. We are community. We must be courageous together. Art must point the way,” says Gardner about her artistic mission. Following Nina Simone’s philosophy that “An artist’s duty, as far as I’m concerned, is to reflect the times,” Gardner has dedicated her practice to creating art that addresses contemporary social issues.
Since the 1990s, when she completed her MFA at UNC Greensboro in 1991, Gardner has focused her practice on art that reflects our time—either as overtly socially reflective, perhaps ironic works, or fanciful pieces that are open to interpretation. A signature element of her work since 1990 has been the incorporation of floating or falling figures, which serve as powerful metaphors in her artistic language.
Gardner’s shift from her earlier landscape painting to socially conscious art occurred during graduate school, when she decided to create work that would engage directly with the pressing issues of our era. Her current body of work continues this exploration, presenting complex themes in a straightforward manner that speaks to both the general public and the art community.
Gallery Hours: Monday – Friday 9:30-12:30; Saturday & Sunday 12-5, or by appointment. For more information, contact Hunter Speagle at hunteratac@gmail.com or 828-612-0546
Photo: Joan E. Gardner’s Art.
