Brenau University will showcase Parallel Narratives, the work of Savannah-based artist Maggie Evans, at Leo Castelli Gallery in the John S. Burd Performing Arts Center beginning Thursday, Aug. 31. An opening reception will take place that same day, starting at 5:30 p.m., featuring an artist’s talk by Evans, along with jazz music by the Bourbon Brothers Band and light refreshments.
Evans will discuss her process, the content of her work, her music and a life journey that changed drastically when she was struck by a vehicle while cycling. Her work uses painting, drawing and installation to examine human social structures and the internal struggle between the need for individuality and the need for inclusion.
“It’s Evans’ sheer grit and resilient spirit to push forward, to heal, and to come back from such incredible odds that are so inspiring,” Gena Brodie Robbins, Brenau’s director of galleries, said. “Her drive and talent are impressive, not only her drawing and painting mastery, but how brilliant she was at juggling her academic responsibilities as a professor at the Savannah College of Art and Design with her many other talents, such as playing bass and being a lead singer in a jazz band. She is a true Renaissance woman.”
The day before her show opens, Evans will speak to Brenau students, faculty and staff on Wednesday, Aug. 30, at 11:45 a.m. in Thurmond-McRae lecture hall about her experiences with art and recovering from her accident.
Evans has shown her work in 16 solo exhibits, more than 50 national group/juried shows and has received a number of awards including the 2017 Western Bureau Art Prize and the Best in Category for Installation/3D at Artfields 2018. Reviews and publications include The Washington Post, New American Paintings and the upcoming INPA 10 International Painting Annual by Manifest Gallery Press.
Evans’ artist residencies include the Hambidge Center for the Arts and Central Trak, as well as a full fellowship to the Vermont Studio Center. In 2011, she was awarded a government scholarship from China that granted her 10 months to develop new work at the China Academy of Art. She has been invited to lecture on her work at a number of institutions including Indiana-Purdue University and the University of Texas, Dallas. Evans earned a Master of Fine Arts in painting in 2008 from the Savannah College of Art and Design.
The solo exhibition closes Nov. 16. This exhibit and the opening reception are free and open to the public.
