Samford Art Gallery will feature the work of Assistant Professor of Art Lauren Frances Evans Jan. 22-Feb. 21. Wrapped Up, Tied Up and Tangled Up started with a memory of a childhood Bible song and grew into a more philosophical exploration of motherhood, creation and faith. The multimedia exhibit includes seven new works that delve into relationships and connections with “material and the immaterial” and visually draws from physical elements such as the navel and umbilical cord. In a recent essay Evans shared, “I’m excited and inspired by the navel, umbilical cord, and placenta as both site and symbol of the simultaneity that is embedded in the human experience. Questions of origin and existence are constantly shaping how I think about my creative work, and my belief is that the work of the artist is primarily ontological.”
Evans joined the faculty last fall and is currently developing Samford’s sculpture offerings. Part of the expanding program will include welding equipment and new classes. She is excited to introduce the students to her work and generate even more interest in sculpture.
“Sculpture is creative problem-solving and I enjoy working with a variety of materials in nontraditional ways,” said Evans. She was drawn to art through sculpture and the challenge of the physical nature of a piece of work. “Sculpture can be figuratively and physically bigger than the initial idea,” continued Evans. The “artist discourse” is also very significant for Evans. “When I became a mother, I found a certain personal identity in my work. Combining that along with my faith is influencing my path as an artist.”
She comes to Samford after teaching at University of Iowa and Grinnell College. According to Evans, “My expectations keep being exceeded at Samford.” She enjoys teaching and being part of a vibrant artist and academic community.
Her artist talk will take place on Jan. 24 at 4 p.m. in the Art Gallery. Thanks to John and Marsha Floyd for sponsoring this year’s gallery events. View more information about Evans.