Fire Clouds, a drawing from John Sears’ Sketchbook Series, is one of the works included in the exhibit of the late artist’s work at the Rider University Art Gallery Sept. 19 through Oct. 13.
The Rider University Art Gallery is set to open the 2013-14 season with an exhibition of drawings and paintings by the late Bucks County artist John Sears.
The exhibition is schedule to be open Sept. 19 through Oct. 13. An opening reception is set for 5 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 19.
Titled “Contrast,” the exhibition includes works created before and after Sears’ 1985 near-fatal bicycling accident, which left him with a traumatic injury brain injury.
One highlight is Sketchbook Series, a collection of still-life drawings and paintings centered on the sketchbook that was always at his side and significant objects in his life. The series has not been displayed in 30 years.
Contrast is also set to include life-drawings and self-portraits done both before and after his injury.
“The works selected for this exhibit both illustrate and symbolize John’s core belief in art and in life: Contrast is the Key,” his widow, Anne Sears said in a statement.
In conjunction with the exhibit the gallery is scheduled to host a panel discussion focusing on creativity in the face of challenge at 7 p.m. on Sept. 26. Gallery director Harry I. Naar, artist Cynthia Groya, Rider University psychology professor John Suler and Anne Sears are set to discuss what drives people to create despite physical, emotional or economic challenges and ways to support the creative spirit that lies in all people.
The Rider University Art Gallery is located in the Bart Luedeke Center, 2083 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrenceville. It is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m.
More information is online at rider.edu/artgallery.
