3 regional artists selected to open 'Sheldon Connections'

From more that 40 proposals, three Nebraska artists have been selected to exhibit their artworks in the first of three sessions of Sheldon Connections -- the initiative to transform empty galleries into vibrant spaces.

Works by Ann Gradwohl, Susan Knight and Jamie Burmeister will be installed in Sheldon Memorial Art Gallery's exhibition spaces on the north side of the second floor July 13 through Aug. 5. The opening for Sheldon Connections, 5 to 7 p.m. July 13, will feature live improvised sound and music by the Mighty Vitamins, interactive elements in each exhibit, appetizers, coffee and cash bars and a public reception for artists. The opening and exhibition are free.

The exhibitions are:

"IMMINENT DANGER." In her new media installation, Gradwohl encourages viewers to question whether surveillance of citizens protects them from imminent danger or is itself an imminent danger. The Lincoln artist has previously produced installations at Haydon Art Center, for the Stories of Home project with the Lincoln Arts Council, and at the Lied Center for Performing Arts.

"Notation of Change." Knight will create a drawing method that simulates catastrophic change in water ecology. She will work in the space throughout the exhibition period publicly creating cut paper drawings on the gallery floor. Knight, who lives in Omaha, created a paper and tape installation at the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts in 2006.

"Arrhytmy." Burmeister's interactive kinetic sound installation explores the artist's "Want of Rhythm." At the opening, choreographer Josie Metal-Corbin will present several modern dancers reacting to the installation. Burmeister, who lives in Gretna, has had numerous exhibitions throughout the Midwest.

Sheldon Connections is taking advantage of the museum's exterior renovations this summer to turn some exhibition spaces into dynamic public sites July 13 through Oct. 14. Two more sessions, Aug. 10-Sept. 9 and Sept. 14-Oct. 14, will offer more artists, exhibitions and events. The Nebraska Art Association, Sheldon's dedicated nonprofit support group, sponsors this initiative to bring new artists and audiences to the Sheldon.

Sheldon houses a permanent collection of more than 12,000 objects focusing on American art. The museum, 12th and R streets on the campus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For information or to arrange a tour, call (402) 472-2461. Additional information is available on the Sheldon Web site, www.sheldon.unl.edu.

CONTACT: Tom White, Public Relations Manager, Sheldon Art Gallery, (402) 472-1197