Artwork by Cleveland Institute of Art faculty members fills galleries, museums and institutions across the country. Just in the past year, their creations have been on view from New York to New Mexico and from Florida up to Michigan, allowing audiences near and far to catch glimpses of their exceptional artistry.

Greater Clevelanders are fortunate, of course. For more than eight decades, the collective talent of CIA faculty has been exhibited in their backyards, allowing viewers to see new, original and innovative works from the college’s world-renowned artists and designers.

The 2021 Faculty Exhibition will continue that proud tradition. The show opens Thursday, August 26 in the Reinberger Gallery and will remain on view through October 10.

Barry Underwood, Photography + Video Department chair, regularly participates in the Faculty Exhibition. He appreciates the connection it offers between CIA and neighboring communities.

“I hope that people in Cleveland and surrounding areas know that they are welcome at CIA—be it through gallery exhibitions, the Cinematheque, lectures or Continuing Education,” Underwood says. “They can become an active part of the Cleveland Institute of Art and contribute to the creative culture here.”

Another connection fostered by the Faculty Exhibition takes place between teacher and student. Sometimes, lessons are best learned outside the studio or classroom, according to Reinberger Gallery Director Nikki Woods.

“This exhibition is an opportunity for CIA faculty to show their students by example what a continued lived practice looks like after art school,” she says. “I think many artists are visual learners, and to have the opportunity to host work by all these artists in one place offers students the chance not only to learn how to make art, but also to see a future in the arts for themselves.”

Underwood agrees.

“I do think that the exhibition teaches by example,” he says. “It also gives students—at least I hope—inspiration in various forms, such as process, content and presentation. I know I find it inspiring to see what my colleagues have been up to currently with their work.”

As always, the Faculty Exhibition will mark the start of a new academic year at CIA. This year, it takes on special significance as pandemic restrictions abate thanks to effective COVID-19 vaccines.

“What I’m looking forward to most is having the opportunity to safely gather for the exhibition opening and to again be able to host classes and tours in the gallery,” Woods says. “I hope those who are able to get the vaccine do get it so that our community can continue to enjoy opportunities to be together and experience art safely.”

 

CIA 2021 FACULTY EXHIBITION | AUGUST 26–OCTOBER 10

SNICKERS THAT TURN INTO LIVABLE JOY | AUGUST 13–SEPTEMBER 12

TECHNICAL SPECIALIST EXHIBITION 2021 | SEPTEMBER 24–OCTOBER 15

 

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