'Transitions' features unique artwork Jan. 13-Feb. 23 at SMU

WINONA, Minn. - “Transitions,” an exhibit featuring the work of La Crescent artist Gerard Justin Ferrari, will be on display in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries at Saint Mary's University Jan. 13-Feb. 23.
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Ferrari's work often transforms ordinary discarded or “orphaned” objects into artistic statements about society.

His Orphaned Teapot series is in response to the current interest in fun and funky teapots. “The essence of these orphaned objects is influenced by the question often asked by science fiction: how will life appear in the future?” he said. He characterizes this group of playful teapots as an amalgamation of biology, mechanics and technology.

His Gizmology Series depicts satirical, comical and fictitious oddities through which he works to convey ideas and feelings about the dilemmas of modern society. Through these imaginative gizmos, he offers social commentary.

And his Syntho Human Series is his response to the conflict between the male and female gender roles. These abstract, figurative sculptures are influenced by an amalgamation of medieval armor, early and unrealized inventions, 20th century appliances and toys, contemporary technology, mannequins and cyborgs.

Ferrari is an assistant professor of art at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wis., and the school's gallery director. An opening reception for the artist will be held 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, at the galleries.

The exhibit - free and open to the public - is located in SMU's Toner Student Center. The galleries are open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call (507) 457-1652.