News Archive

Nazareth College Art Department opens 2018 with distinguished alumni in two galleries on January 26

Published January 09, 2018

Rochester, NY— The Nazareth College Art Department is pleased to present two exhibitions this month beginning on Friday, January 26: the 50th Anniversary Alumni Show: Kinesis, featuring the works of 80 alumni, in the Arts Center Gallery, and Downtown Denim, a collaborative art project curated by Rob Servo '05, in the Colacino Gallery. Both shows are free and open to the public with opening receptions on Friday, January 26 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Some works will also be available for sale. Both galleries are located inside the Nazareth College Arts Center, 4245 East Avenue, Rochester, N.Y., 14618. Hours for each exhibit are listed below.

The Shows
The 50th Anniversary Alumni Show: Kinesis is a juried exhibition in the Arts Center Gallery that will showcase new work in a broad range of mediums by 80 Nazareth art alumni. This year's alumni exhibition is in memory of Renée Simone-Lee '81, who passed away from brain cancer last fall. Simone-Lee's oil paintings of landscape scenes were recognized in regional and national shows including the Louis D'Amanda Memorial Award in the 2013 Rochester-Finger Lakes Exhibition at the Memorial Art Gallery. A memorial scholarship in her name has also been established for art students at Nazareth College.

"Renée was already developing her own style as a student at Nazareth in the late-1970s and early 1980s," said Ron Netsky, professor and chairperson of the art department and director of studio art at Nazareth. "Her paintings are vibrant, overflowing with expression and radiant color. It's sad beyond words that Renée is not here with us, but her paintings will always remind us of the wonderful spirit they reflect."

Also opening January 26, Downtown Denim is a collaborative art project in the Colacino Gallery consisting of painted designer denim panels curated by artist and Nazareth art alumni Rob Servo '05. Ranging from abstract to realist painters, sculptors to tattoo artists, gallery directors and a museum preparatory, Denim is a glimpse into what is possible when you bring together a diverse group of artists on a unique shared medium.

"After traveling with this exhibit for the past six years, I am excited to bring this collection to my alma mater," said Servo. "Denim continues to become more dynamic as the roster of artists grows with each artist bringing their distinct style to these collaborations. I'm also excited to be sharing a new group of never seen before pieces, including work by the growing roster of Rochester artists involved in the project."

Visit naz.edu/arts-center/newsroom/ for photos.

The Fine Print
50th Anniversary Alumni Show: Kinesis
Friday, January 26-Sunday, March 4, 2018 in the Arts Center Gallery
Opening Reception: Friday, January 26 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Gallery Hours: Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: noon- 5 p.m.; Friday, Saturday: noon- 8 p.m.
Free and open to the public

Downtown Denim
Friday, January 26-Sunday, March 4, 2018 in the Colacino Gallery
Opening Reception: Friday, January 26 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Gallery Hours: Wednesday - Sunday: noon - 5p.m.
Free and open to the public

Info line for hours and latest updates: 585-389-5073, or e-mail artinfo@naz.edu with any questions.

Since 1967, the NAZARETH COLLEGE ARTS CENTER has served as a venue and educational resource for students, educators, artists, and audiences of all ages to create, study, and experience the visual and performing arts. The Arts Center's subscription series and K-12 school performance series provide area residents of all ages with opportunities to experience world-class dance, multi-cultural entertainment, family programming, music, theatre, and special events. The Departments of Art, Music, and Theatre and Dance present exceptional productions, recitals, and exhibitions, which are open to the public, while preparing students for successful careers in arts-related fields.
The Nazareth College Arts Center is the performance home of the Rochester City Ballet and world-renowned Garth Fagan Dance; and is home to the Bach Children's Chorus.

Media please note: high-resolution images are available at naz.edu/arts-center/newsroom/ and interviews and photo/footage opportunities can be arranged upon request.

For More Information

Michelle Shippers, 585-389-2093, 585-733-4684 cell mshippe0@naz.edu

Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for nearly 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.

Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.

"Seven Sisters" by Renée Simone-Lee