Sheldon Connections 2 opens Aug. 10, features regional artists

Works from 27 artists will be on view in the second of three sessions of Sheldon Connections -- the initiative by the Nebraska Art Association to transform empty galleries into vibrant spaces this summer at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Sheldon Memorial Art Gallery.

An array of contemporary works -- some inviting viewer interaction, some created as visitors watch, and some compelling contemplation -- will be installed in the Sheldon's exhibition spaces on the north side of the second floor from Aug. 10 through Sept. 9. An opening event from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 10 will feature appetizers, coffee and cash bars, and a public reception for the artists. The opening and exhibition are free and open to the public.

The four major exhibitions are:

"Line for Line." Curated by Peggy Gomez, this exhibition presents six artists who explore the use of line in lithography, paint, mixed media and installation in their works. Gomez says each artist's distinctly different worldview is expressed through the use of line, pattern, color and mark making. The artists are Maranda Albritten, Claudia Alvarez, Sherry Black, Deb Oden, Trudie Teijink and Gomez.

"Nebraska Arts Council Awardees." This exhibition presents one piece from each of 14 artists who were awarded 2007 Individual Visual Arts Fellowships. The artists are Jamie Burmeister, Mary Zicafoose, James Bockelman, Tim Guthrie, Leslie Iwai, Ellie Greenspoon, Santiago Cal, Marjorie Mikasen, Aaron Holz, Troy Muller, Susan McGilvrey, Bill Shaffer, Robert Schwieger and Ann Gradwohl.

"Drawing." Lincoln artist David Harvey will establish a studio in Sheldon so visitors may experience the creative drawing process.

"Evidence." While painting a large canvas in Sheldon, artist Michael Burton will use the medium of video time-lapse recording to explore his impromptu painting process and examine whether his painting is a finished work as well as an amalgam of ideas layered over time.

In addition, works from two other artists, Margaret Berry and Nadine McHenry, will be on view in the Sheldon Connections coffee shop space, and Peggy Gomez will have an interactive Zeppelin activity for visitors in that space.

Sheldon Connections takes advantage of the museum's exterior renovations this summer to turn some exhibition spaces into dynamic public sites. In addition to the art exhibitions, numerous events and performances are scheduled. The program opened July 13 with three installation exhibits. The final session, Sheldon Connections 3, will run from Sept. 14 through Oct. 14, and 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 UNL campus, 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. on Friday, and noon to 5 p.m. on 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 Memorial Art Gallery, (402) 472-1197