ISSUED: 3 October 2019
MEDIA CONTACT: Valerie Owens
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University’s Phaze 2 Gallery will host the exhibit “Installation and Sculpture” by Zac Benson October 7-November 2. An opening reception is planned Monday, October 7, beginning at 4 p.m., with a lecture by Benson at 5 p.m. The reception, lecture, and exhibit are free and open to the public.
Benson said his exhibit is a compilation of works that engage visitors beyond the initial viewing. Benson uses his studio practice to navigate current happenings, personal beliefs, and anthropological perspectives. He examines issues such as the Syrian refugee crisis, the U.S. southern border, U.S. politics, and persecuted people and religions. He toils over aspects of life and society that are concerning, meaningful, or just overwhelming. Benson wants to raise awareness and evoke empathy toward people and happenings.
Benson is an international artist who has exhibited in Taiwan, Bulgaria, and throughout the United States. He has also had public commissions in Australia, California, New York, and Washington, D.C. He holds a B.F.A. in sculpture from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and an M.F.A. in studio art from the University of Maryland. Currently, he is an assistant professor of studio art at Cedarville University, where he teaches sculpture and ceramics.
— 30 —
