USC Lancaster’s new art exhibit, titled “Un-Words,” is a selection of works by 11 artists from across the United States. The exhibit, now open, will remain on display through the end of February. The works demonstrate “things that unsettle in daily life such as relocating, raising a child, and our rapidly changing environment,” according to exhibit curator Brittany Taylor, archival assistant and adjunct instructor at USCL.

Admittedly feeling a bit unsettled herself, Taylor conceived of this show after completing an intense two year graduate program.  The other artists in the exhibit are her classmates and fellow graduates from the Vermont College of Fine Arts in Montpelier, Vermont.  Known for its challenging curriculum that urges the artist to consider that art is both product, and process, the exhibit offers an array of unusual objects encouraging the viewer to question the content. Admittedly unsettling, several works offer a dark humor, but the exhibit also attempts to convey a sense of unity. For example, Taylor’s piece “Un-Housed,” is an installation of objects and paintings. Moss covered pillows and dirt filled jars suggest the outdoors but an altar-like table and paintings on the wall suggest an interior. This blurred setting makes the viewer question the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. Olaitan Valerie’s untitled work is a soft fiber construction of felt, netting, straw, sticks and other similar fibrous materials. Shaped and distressed, this sculpture is reminiscent of the debris that remains after a tragedy such as fire or flooding. The piece suggests objects of the home that have undergone a difficult transformation. 

While several pieces in the exhibit may elicit a feeling of unease, “great things emerge from difficult circumstances,” said Taylor of the show’s concept.

Artists represented in the exhibit are, Yip Chan from suburban Maryland; Charmaine Felix-Meyer from Los Angeles, CA; Michelle Hagewood from Baltimore, MD; Kelly Jones from Castleton-on- Hudson, NY; Jonathon Marrs from Portland, OR; Lisa Martin from Monroe, Maine; Shaw Osha from Olympia, WA; Jolanda Pieta van Arnhem from Charleston, SC; Marcy Pope from Francestown, NH; Olaitan Valerie from Oakland, CA; and Brittany Taylor from Lancaster, SC.

The gallery, located in the Bradley Building Atrium, is open every week day while classes are in session. Weekend viewing hours are available by appointment. For more information call 803-313-7036.