Since Matthew Baumgardner’s death in 2018, the estate of the visual artist has worked with Furman University to create an opportunity for students to learn about Baumgardner’s life and work, and at the same time, to experience what it takes to curate and organize an exhibition.
Under the direction of new faculty member Diane Fischer, Furman University students in Curatorial Issues and Practices have fashioned an exhibition showcasing 17 Baumgardner paintings, sculptures, personal items and ephemera.
TOWN Magazine covered the exhibition, whose opening will be available to the public Thursday, Jan. 28, 6:30-7:30 p.m. via Zoom by requesting a link at [email protected]. The in-person exhibition is open to Furman students, faculty and staff Jan. 19-Feb. 19.
Brandon Barney ’21, one of the students in the class, reflected on Baumgardner’s work:
“The use of Baumgardner’s grids and glyphs reminds me that everything is not always as it seems. Everyone has a multilayered personality. [He] also sheds light on the importance of process – the marks on the canvas are an outer representation of his thoughts and emotions during this process. Hidden glyphs and bold grids show a conflict between a part of the artist that wants to hide and a part that wants to be seen.”
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