DuPage Foundation’s Arts DuPage (AD) and North Central College’s (NCC) Campus Gallery team have joined forces to present Rare Glimpse, an exhibition featuring the work of DuPage County artists supported by the countywide arts council. The first-ever collaboration between the two entities has been years in the making. Thwarted by the pandemic, policy changes, and a renovation, the display is now available for viewing at Oesterle Library through May 5.
Kathryn Pszotka, NCC’s co-gallery director, was eager to work with AD. “This partnership not only showcases the newly renovated Oesterle Library Learning Commons, but it also invites community members to experience the venue and artwork firsthand. The dedicated exhibition area now has over 80 feet of wall space and an updated art hanging system.” This setting is a perfect backdrop, she continues, “for Rare Glimpse to highlight over 30 pieces from local community members who represent the County’s most dedicated makers and artists.”
The free exhibit features 2D and 3D art created by 20 artists from 12 municipalities as selected by a jury review of entries received through a call for artists. The show’s diverse body of work comprises medium categories, including acrylic, oil, collage, sculpture, and photography, with styles that span from whimsical to sublime. A required artist statement accompanies each piece and gives the viewer a rare glimpse into the mind of the artist, whose thoughts range from life and love to climate change and natural disasters. Topics like gender roles, aging, and memories emerged, as did a commentary on the industrious life of modern-day bunnies.
Resident Michelle Rae Sobi, the owner of Sobi’s Edge Visual Arts, was elated when she learned of her participant status. “There’s no place better than my hometown to share artwork. Naperville is heavily steeped in the arts and welcomes artists who express their ideas.” She also praised AD for “offering opportunities for artists to grow their craft through its events, classes, and workshops. I learn so much from my fellow members and can only humbly hope they pick up a thing (or two) from me.”
Organizers regrettably could not accept a submission by filmmaker Susan Fredericks of Carol Stream due to its medium. Her video project included an original soundtrack, something that the library space could not accommodate. Hopes are high for a continued relationship between AD and NCC wherein future exhibitions could be held in galleries designed to incorporate audio in a visual environment.
Oesterle Library at North Central College is located at 320 E. School Street. For information, call (630) 637-5700 or visit library.noctrl.edu/about-library.
For more about Arts DuPage, a DuPage Foundation Initiative, visit artsdupage.org.
