Two art exhibitions, one in Concord and one in Boston, feature several pieces of work from current Plymouth State University students and alumni.
The biennial North American Printmaking Exhibition sponsored by the Boston Printmakers Association, located at Boston University, is holding a juried exhibition for several New England colleges, including PSU, Rhode Island School of Design, Mass College of Art, Boston University School of Arts and The Boston Museum School among many others. A wide range of printmaking work is featured, including etching, engraving, drypoint and silkscreen.
The portion of the exhibit that PSU students are involved in is called the Art Schools of New England Exhibit. What is significant about this exhibit is that fact that is a competition to be featured; the standard of work must be high enough to be considered for entry. The PSU students who are featuring work in the Boston Printmakers show are Jimmy Russell, Laura Tripodi, Laura Utley, Jacinda Isabey and Amanda LaBrie.
Going on at the same time, “What’s New In New Hampshire Printmaking” is an art exhibition taking place at the Franklin Pierce Law Center which features work by NH printmaking artists as well as PSU students. Ann Marie Bobon, Michelle Munson, Chris Naro, Chris Marcoux, Alma Grand and the students in the Boston Printmakers show are the students featured here.
“I am very excited about this show. I have one piece in this show as well as a piece at a biennial print show at the 808 Gallery in Boston,” said senior Amanda LaBrie. “They both happened at the same time and this is the first time I have shown my work since high school, so I am very excited to have my work be displayed as well as have people see it. As an artist, this is what you want, for people to see your work in display. I think it’s just another step in growing as an artist. I can be proud of my work.”
As well as student work being featured, there are also several PSU faculty members that have work on display. “My works that are included in both exhibits are etchings inspired by drawings made in the town where I live,” said Terry Downs, a professor in the Art Department. “Other faculty who submitted work include Annette Mitchell, Carol Jowdy, Anita Dillman, Liz D’Amico and Dr. Cynthia Vascak.”
“This show has a tremendous impact on students. It provides a focus for competition and excellence in their own endeavors and teaches them to consider more fully their professional potential and opportunities beyond their college experience,” said Downs. “They take it very seriously and respond in a highly professional using their education to their best advantage.”