Art Gallery Features Multi-Discipline Exhibitions

The University Art Gallery will feature “The Legend of Kente” and “ETCETERA” Sept. 1 through Oct. 20.

“The Legend of Kente” explores the rich history, artistry and cultural significance of kente cloth, Ghana’s iconic woven textile. Featuring more than 50 kente weavings, four dresses, a video demonstrating the weaving process and interpretive materials, the exhibition highlights the intricate patterns, colors, symbols and stories embedded within each work. From its origins as a royal textile to its role as a global symbol of African heritage, pride and Pan-African identity, “The Legend of Kente” celebrates the enduring legacy of this artistic tradition.

The collection is toured by Exhibits USA National Traveling Exhibitions, a program managed by Mid-America Arts Alliance, one of the six nonprofit regional arts organizations. Exhibits USA expands the depth and breadth of cultural life in local communities, rural and urban, by offering accessible exhibitions to small and mid-sized venues nationwide. Additional information about the program can be found at eusa.org.

An opening reception for the exhibition will take place from 5-6 p.m. Sept. 4 in the University Art Gallery. This event is free and open to the public.

“ETCETERA” by Rao Ibtisam Najam, assistant professor of design, brings together a collection of work created across years of exploring, experimenting and working between disciplines. Spanning graphic design, illustration, comics, concept art, film and animation, the exhibition reflects a creative practice that has never quite fit into a single box. These varied experiences eventually converged in “Interactive Storytelling: Comics through Gameplay,” a master’s thesis that combined visual storytelling, comics and video games to explore new ways audiences can interact with and experience a narrative. 

Originally from Lahore, Pakistan, Najam’s creative practice spans a wide range of mediums and formats, shaped by experience working both independently and commercially across various forms of visual storytelling. His multidisciplinary background has encouraged an approach to making that is driven by experimentation and a willingness to move between traditional and digital media. Additional information about Najam, as well as more of his work, can be found at raoibtisam.com.

Najam will host an artist’s talk at 4:30 p.m. Sept. 4 in the Charlyn Gallery, with an opening ceremony for “ETCETERA” following from 5-6:30 p.m. These events are free and open to the public.