Hanging Together

Oh, the college gallery with the semester's obligatory student group show. There are usually a few gems, but mostly there's work by artists just starting to get a clear vision...oh, and there will be turds. Hell, I've been a part of those shows and know full well that depending on your work, you help hang with fingers crossed you get a prime spot with good viewing range and preferably next to someone who totally sucks. Or, as I did one semester, you own up to your turds and volunteer for a place in the restroom corridor. Michael Miller and Lawrence Lee represent faculty and students (respectively) that deserve to have prime spots in an exhibition. The University of A&M Commerce artists have brought their exceptionally different but equally exceptional art to Barry Whistler Gallery for dual solo exhibitions, teacher and student now peers against the white walls. Miller showcases his vibrant and irreverent Ranch Style series. Many pieces reminiscent of album art depict animals, text, pattern and a take on consumerism. Lee continues his Box Fan story line in this new show, Write Your Music Here. Fat Prince, the villain of Box Fan, appears in an array of pieces ranging up to "epic scale." I have no doubt the word "music" was choice for the title; Lee's pieces are flowing, melodic and haunting works on paper. Both shows hang Wednesdays through Saturdays through January 5. Call 214-939-0242 or visit barrywhistlergallery.com.
Wednesdays-Saturdays. Starts: Dec. 5. Continues through Jan. 5, 2007