Alberto Rey's "ATLAS: Historical Works and Recent Journeys" Exhibition to Showcase Diversity of Cultural and Artistic Expression

Strategic Insights -

Professor Alberto Rey, a SUNY distinguished professor emeritus, has curated an exhibition titled "ATLAS: Historical Works and Recent Journeys" featuring works created during a five-month expedition to 14 countries and 22 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The exhibition, which opens on September 5 and runs through November 21, includes 133 paintings, drawings, and ceramics, as well as journal entries in paint books and sketchbooks, and art supplies used during the voyage.

Key Takeaways:

  • The exhibition features works from seven past series, including "Binary Forms," "Las Balsas," "Appropriated Memories," "Lost Beauty: Icebergs," "Extinct Birds," "Critically Endangered Palms of Cuba," and "Biological Regionalism," which are interconnected.
  • Professor Rey notes that his work is an extension of his emotional connection to the flora and fauna investigated in past series, and his fascination with the solitary palm tree from Cuba has led to a new series.
  • The voyage drawings and paintings are divided into 16 sections according to the location and order of the trip, covering 14 countries and 22 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • During the 2024 trip, Professor Rey continued his exploration of flora, fauna, and diverse cultures, falling in love with the cacti of the Galapagos Islands and the indigenous people of Argentina and Chile.
  • The exhibition includes journal entries, art supplies, and sketchbooks from the journey, providing an intimate look into Professor Rey's creative process.
  • Professor Rey has an impressive teaching career at SUNY Fredonia, earning several awards, including the SUNY Chancellor's Research Recognition Award and the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activity.
  • The exhibition is supported by the Fredonia College Foundation's Cathy and Jesse Marion Endowment Fund and the Friends of Rockefeller Arts Center.

Statistics:

  • 133 paintings, drawings, and ceramics are featured in the exhibition.
  • 16 sections of voyage drawings and paintings are included in the exhibition, corresponding to 14 countries and 22 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • 7 past series are represented in the exhibition, including "Binary Forms," "Las Balsas," "Appropriated Memories," "Lost Beauty: Icebergs," "Extinct Birds," "Critically Endangered Palms of Cuba," and "Biological Regionalism."
  • 93 images of artwork in the exhibition are included in the complimentary 150-page exhibition catalog.

Sources:

  • Works by SUNY distinguished professor emeritus Alberto Rey to be showcased in exhibition at Marion Art Gallery, SUNY at Fredonia news release, September 2024.
  • Interview with Alberto Rey, SUNY at Fredonia, September 2024.
  • "ATLAS: Historical Works and Recent Journeys" exhibition catalog, designed by Matt Mateosian, includes an essay by Dr. Jamie DiSarno, diary entries by Rey, 93 images of artwork, an exhibition checklist, and photographs from the journey.