July 23, 2019
Look at politics through art with the University Museum’s newest exhibit
CARBONDALE, Ill. — A political art exhibit from a renowned artist and alumnus is coming to Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s University Museum this fall.
Yingxue Zuo’s enthralling exhibit features a unique perspective about the modern political arena and is set to open Aug. 1. A free reception and artist talk will follow on Aug. 31.
“THE VOICE”
The political art exhibit will feature four large murals and eight pieces of framed art. Zuo explains his passion for the pieces as a visual expression of his concerns of the past half century, outlining political, cultural and societal topics.
“This is a historical turning point, and the American people are facing a serious challenge for protecting true American values and the democratic foundation to avoid historical reverse,” Zuo said.
As an artist, Zuo takes it as his responsibility to use art as a way to voice serious thoughts about American values.
Artist combines Chinese and American techniques
Known for his unique works inspired by the natural world, Zuo combines ancient Chinese techniques with modern practices. His work spans across sketches, oil paintings, woodblock prints and Chinese ink paintings, with over 60 different exhibitions collected by universities, colleges, companies and private collectors, according to his website.
While working as the chair of the art department at St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, Zuo regularly travels to China for tours and workshops.
Zuu earned his bachelors of fine arts from Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilan Province, China, and his masters of fine arts from SIU.
Reception Aug. 31
“THE VOICE” exhibit will run from Aug. 1 to Dec. 14, with the exhibit open during normal museum hours. A special reception is set for Aug. 31 from 4:30-7 p.m., with an artist talk from 5-6 p.m.
Admission to the Museum is free and open to the public. The Museum is currently open Tuesdays-Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays 1-4 p.m. Public metered parking is available across from the Student Center and beside Woody Hall.
For more information, contact Wes Stoerger at stoerger@siu.edu or visit museum.siu.edu.