Artist Name: Surelle Strike Show Run: Mon, Dec 9 – Wed, Jan 22
Gallery Hours: Monday – Friday: 10 am – 6 pm Artist Talk: Thursday, Jan 16, 1pm in the gallery
Website: https://www.surellestrikeart.com/
I have always loved Fairy tales. Storybooks went hand in hand with beautiful illustrations and imaginary worlds where anything is possible. Heroic narratives, mythical creatures, mysteries, and magic are to be expected when you read a fairy tale. Recently, beautiful gowns and poised princesses are the face of our modern fairy tales, causing us to forget that underneath all of the “pink fluff” are deep and meaningful stories, often with dark twists, slightly uncomfortable innuendoes, non-negotiable morals, and do-or-die advice. As I continue to read and listen to tales, I’ve seen how much more connected to reality they are, as opposed to fantasy. Through things like folklore, history, campfire tales, and cultural traditions we keep our stories alive. I enjoy making similar connections with my work.
My paintings depict women who are in the midst of navigating their stories, or re-writing them entirely. They are re-imagined as more than incapable children, or damsels in distress. The world they are in may be modern, historical, or pure fantasy. Symbolic plants, animals, and needlework are small details I enjoy weaving into my stories and images. My work is modern day storytelling, with female characters who are deep and complex. They are not to be overlooked in order to favor the prince or the plot.
The James Wegner Art Gallery provides an educational experience to students and the community by featuring exhibitions from regional, national, and international artists working in a variety of media. The gallery is located in the Austin East building just to the left of the Frank W. Bridges Theatre lobby. Gallery hours vary each semester. Please call 507-433-0600 for current information.
