Center Art Gallery
Spoelhof College Center
3201 Burton Street SE
Grand Rapids, MI  49546
(616) 526-6271
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
 
The Nature of Invasion
work by Jennifer Steensma Hoag

October 12 - November 4, 2006

From October 12 to November 4, the Center Art Gallery at Calvin College presents "The Nature of Invasion," an exhibition by Jennifer Steensma Hoag that explores the conflicted relationship we have with wild animals. The exhibition consists of digitally manipulated photographic images and additional text panels that draw attention to the issues surrounding the habitats of wild animals and the ramifications that ongoing land development poses.

Despite support for preservation of wildlife and habitat, widespread development continues to displace animals. Many of these species are able to adapt to an increasingly urban environment and multiply, escalating tensions between human and animal. Whitetail deer offer a prime example of this in our own communities throughout Michigan, and are prominently featured in Hoag's images, both in expected and incongruous outdoor settings. Known for their physical beauty, graceful movement and elusiveness, deer are exceptionally gifted at adapting to changing environments and can be found in our backyards and crossing our roads. The manipulated images combine placid deer in suburban and urban environments, emphasizing the shrinking gap that separates humans and whitetail deer.

Hoag, an associate professor of art at Calvin College, spent her sabbatical leave in 2004-05 developing this body of work. In a culture where we are becoming increasingly distanced from the land and animals, she hopes this exhibition will prompt viewers to wrestle with their assumptions regarding the place and function of animals.

In addition to a Calvin Alumni Association Grant for this project, she also received an Arts Grant from the Target Corporation that helps in bringing the arts to children. The grant will assist with exhibition production costs and supplies for digital photography workshops that Hoag will conduct with public middle school students in the Grand Rapids area.

Support by: Target, Calvin College, Calvin Alumni Association

Framing by: Cascade Gallery

PROGRAMS
Friday, October 13, 7-9 p.m.
Opening Reception
Center Art Gallery

Thursday, November 2, 4 p.m.
Gallery Talk - with Jennifer Steensma Hoag
Center Art Gallery

The barrier-free Center Art Gallery, located on the lower level of the Spoelhof College Center, is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday. There is no admission charge.

CONTACT
Joel Zwart, Director of Exhibitions
(616) 526-6271
jhz2@calvin.edu
www.calvin.edu/centerartgallery