'Just Off Center' Artist Talk

There will be NO OPENING RECEPTION for this exhibit. The Hutchinson Art Center gallery will reopen on June 2nd (with occupancy limitations and emphasis on health and safety procedures). This exhibit will be on display in our Main Gallery June 2nd - 28th.

Exhibit Statement: “I was recently talking with a friend of mine from the East coast. She was trying to understand the Kansas dialect, and I asked her if she was familiar with the word “ope.” She asked how the word functioned, and I had to explain that it was a filler for so many situations. Want to excuse yourself? “Ope, be right back.” Need to apologize for taking up space? “Ope, sorry, just gotta get through.” Wish to punctuate your clumsy existence? “Ope, my bad!” Need a polite interjection? “Ope! Look at that!” So, what does it mean to express yourself as an artist within this vernacular? How does creativity coexist with polite uncertainty?”

Derek Goon, Kevin Kelly and Ashley Lande illustrate just how broad the Midwestern accent can be, even with an uncertain self-awareness. Awkwardness tempers beauty, making for colorful gestures that are down-to-earth. Humor confronts tragedy, rendering dark subjects with a relate-able shape. Through careful observation, mystery and depth is in the mundane. These three Kansas artists communicate with voices that are neither flat nor dull.

The Hutchinson Art Center is taking every necessary precaution to keep our audience safe and secure with having designated hand sanitizer stations, cleaning routines, and providing masks to patrons. We hope you can join us!