In a small corner of Pattee Library, a University student gazes upon a collection of art works. She looks slightly confused, but then there is a sudden expression of understanding as to the message the works are trying to convey.
"All things are one, all things are different. The world is composed of shapes and colors, my works are composed of shapes and colors. We all speak with a different voice from the same language," wrote the artist, Kevin Slick.
His exhibit, titled World of Symbols, displays a combination of various styles, mainly mixed media and pastels. This entourage consists of an interesting show of colors, ranging from cool pastels to vibrant shades.
"Most of my drawings and paintings of people are abstract," Slick said. "I try to use essential shapes and lines; the people and the world are interrelated with colors and shapes.
Shannon Sherow (freshman-math education) said two of Slick's most interesting works are "Fred I" and "Fred II", created in a style of mixed media. This form unites watercolor, pen, ink, and pastel in a unique manner.
From within the piece, a vague yet familiar figure appears, distinct yet obscure: "That's Fred Astaire," Slick said.
As a college photographer, Slick found a way to incorporate still photos into his art. By photographing an image on the television and xeroxing copies of the picture, this innovative artist was able to capture the abstract through other means.
"I was looking at a very unfamiliar, modern type of art. I felt comfortable because of the presence of a sentimental, well-known face," said Sherow who had been admiring Slick's work in Pattee. "I wonder how someone could be so creative using ordinary equipment to produce a piece of art work."
Kevin Slick's creativity does not end with his artwork. A part-time graduate student, he graduated from the University with a degree in Art Education. Currently writing and producing commercials for radio, he also divides his time playing, singing, and writing for a band called Neo Pseudo and the Invisible Band.
Inspiration comes from a number of things, but for this artist, the incentive is found in the music he hears and in the poetry he reads and writes.
"I listen to music while painting," Slick said. "Reading and listening affect art."
Slick said Chinese art by the American artist Franz Kline was of great influence in his paintings, especially in watercolor.
Curtis Bayer, a fellow band member and artist, considers Slick an intriguing man with a pleasant sense of humor. "His art and music express a side of him that is kept secret in his personal life," he said.
Slick said he tries to create and project a peaceful and passive feeling through his art and through his music.
"When I have aggressive feelings, I tend to use colors like gray and black," the artist said. "Painting makes me feel better; it's like therapy."
Another exhibit, which will display primarily Slick's water colors, will be set up today in Kern Building.
"World of Symbols" will be available for viewing at the Lending Services Gallery at Pattee Library until Oct. 20.
