Assistant Professor of Art Rebecca S. Murtaugh, is exhibiting "Seduction" at the 1708 Gallery in Richmond, Va. This two-person show, which runs until Oct. 11, explores works that are visually and intellectually seductive.
According to Murtaugh, typical objects exude qualities that guide a process of playful material investigations. Her work, "Leisurely Temptation," is an exacting, repetitive and delicate handling of simple materials, such as Post-It notes. It culminates in an installation that uses formal strategies of references to minimalist objects and the decorative arts in an attempt to elevate our perceived value of typically disposable things. Her works with thermoplastic emerge from this interest in value and beauty, but use these traits to camouflage or re-surface objects that reference violent sport in the series "Sweetest Battle." Murtaugh's exhibit presents a sensual, visceral, and visual experience, and at the same time, the opportunity to reflect on more deeply rooted and conflicting personal and cultural value sets.
According to Murtaugh, typical objects exude qualities that guide a process of playful material investigations. Her work, "Leisurely Temptation," is an exacting, repetitive and delicate handling of simple materials, such as Post-It notes. It culminates in an installation that uses formal strategies of references to minimalist objects and the decorative arts in an attempt to elevate our perceived value of typically disposable things. Her works with thermoplastic emerge from this interest in value and beauty, but use these traits to camouflage or re-surface objects that reference violent sport in the series "Sweetest Battle." Murtaugh's exhibit presents a sensual, visceral, and visual experience, and at the same time, the opportunity to reflect on more deeply rooted and conflicting personal and cultural value sets.