VISUAL ARTS + MUSEUMS

For two weeks this winter, the University of Houston’s Blaffer Gallery will feature a flurry of works including digital media, installations, prints, paintings, photography, sculptures, and videos. Approximately 90 artworks make up this year’s "School of Art Annual Student Exhibition," on view from Feb. 27, 2010, through March 13, 2010.

The exhibition presents the work of senior Bachelor of Fine Arts and non-graduating Master of Fine Arts students from the School of Art. The public is invited to a free opening reception at Blaffer on Friday, Feb. 26, from 6 until 8 p.m. At this time, visitors are encouraged to tour the students’ studios throughout the Fine Arts Building.

The Annual Student Exhibition opening is one of the most highly attended yearly events at Blaffer, often drawing in more than 1,000 visitors. Sponsoring partner Saint Arnold Brewing Company will be pouring a selection of complimentary craft beers at the reception for guests over 21.

“People often forget just how big the School of Art is; we have about a thousand students doing the broadest imaginable range of artistic practice,” stated John Reed, the director of the School of Art. “The thing I like about annual student exhibition is that – just this once – you get to see a visual super-sampler, a rich cross section of the talent and creativity of our students. But it’s certainly not a show filled with stuffy, blue-chip art. It’s a show for people who like to see fresh ideas, new directions and risk-taking,” he added.

The School of Art Annual Student Exhibition is made possible in part by the University of Houston’s Student Fees Advisory Committee.

Pictured:  images from this year's show.