The Knoxville Museum of Art introduces Contemporary Focus, a new series that recognizes, supports, and documents the development of contemporary art in East Tennessee. Each year the KMA will feature several emerging artists who work in new and experimental ways. Contemporary Focus 2009 presents the work of three remarkable artists: Hunt Clark, Patricia Tinajero, and David Wolff. The exhibition will run from September 4 – November 8, 2009.
The opening reception at the KMA on Thursday, September 3, 2009, from 7-9pm is free and open to the public.
Hunt Clark studied art at the University of Tennessee with a focus in painting and sculpture. Clark is best known for his intricately curved, organic shapes that he carves out of large blocks of wood or constructs with large inflatable structures.
Patricia Tinajero is an assistant professor in the department of sculpture at the University of Tennessee. Born in Quito, Ecuador, Tinajero often uses her work to raise questions about cultural identity and social practice. As part of Contemporary Focus, Tinajero has built a large sculpture in KMA’s south garden.
David Wolff, a 1991 graduate of the University of Tennessee, paints with a delicate and thoughtful touch. Deeply inspired by Renaissance and Medieval art, Wolff’s abstract scenes become intensely realistic. Wolff runs the Fluorescent Gallery in downtown Knoxville which has become a backbone of Knoxville’s downtown arts district.
Presenting Sponsors of this exhibition are Jennifer and Greg Dunn. Additional support is provided by Arts Build Communities, Arts & Culture Alliance of Greater Knoxville. Media sponsors include AT&T Real Yellow Pages, digital media graphix, Method Bureau, WBIR.