"The Things That Come To Pass: works by Perry Riley Jr., MFA"

Opening Reception: Friday, March 1, 6 - 9 pm

Show Runs March 1 - 23, 2013

 Born in 1970 in Danville, Il, Perry grew up on a farm in Indiana where he was greatly influenced by his relationship with Mother Nature. Perry's professional training includes a BFA in Printmaking from the Herron School of Art and an MFA in Printmaking from University of Texas at San Antonio, where he graduated top of his class, receiving numerous awards and recognition in both art history and a variety of mediums. Perry has mastered a wide range of mediums which enables him to create his unique works of art. He enjoys the fact that the gourd surface readily accepts mixed medium applications which allows for his layering process to develop richness.

Through his artistic ability, Perry transforms the common gourd into an object of power. He is inspired by the designs and surfaces of the old West that was once located East of the Mississippi, from prehistoric eras through the 1700's, including the transformation of the cultures as colonial history unfolded. As an educator, he conducts workshops that demonstrate and portray early American history in an engaging manner that is both upbeat and informative. Additionally, Perry instructs classes in contemporary art mediums and techniques while offering insights into the history behind the methods.

"I grow a lot of the gourds I use in my art work and it's an important part of my process. Gourds have brought all my interests of outdoor gardening, history and art together in one medium. I enjoy the fact that I can grow my own canvas. Gourds are literally the Tupperware of the old world and is an excellent way for me to reconnect with the Earth and human history."

Perry currently lives on a rural farm in Indiana in a log home and studio both of which he designed and built from period buildings he found and disassembled. His studio is located in the woods by the gourd growing fields from which he draws great inspiration.

For more information on this exciting artist, you can visit his website at http://www.perryriley.com and follow the link to his Facebook page where he regularly posts pictures of works in progress, thoughts, history and his involvement in various charities.