For a high quality image, go to: http://www.webster.edu/news/releases/images/jason.jpg

What/Who: The recent work of New York-based artist Jason Hackenwerth is  presented by Webster University. Hackenwerth rigorously constructs  complex balloon creations, which evoke a spirit of wonder and oddity.  Inspired by the forms of sea creatures, fossils, and giant prehistoric creatures, Hackenwerth’s forms recall universal themes of  life, birth and death. To build his monumental biomorphic sculpture,  Hackenwerth knots and shapes hundreds of brightly colored inflated  balloons into magical and ephemeral configurations of lively cobbled  creatures. The kinetic installations are made up of organic, latex neon forms, reminiscent of anemones and urchins. In addition, his  large-scale photographs are meant to capture the sculptures in their  most vibrant condition. They are set in what could be post-apocalyptic landscapes while simultaneously functioning as costumes  they capture a moment of the performance. As wearable sculpture, he  temporarily inserts a soul into his creations; the works are at-once full of life and breath. As predictable each tendril loses both the  trapped air and their sense of vibrancy, the work visibly wilts over the course of the exhibition, their ephemeral nature reflects our own  lives. They employ an eerie cinematic quality, portraying animated  attack scenes, all acting as a philosophical inquiry into the nature of mortality. Jason Hackenwerth received his MFA in 2003 from the Savannah College of Art and Design and his BFA from Webster University. Financial assistance for this project has been provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency And with support from the Regional Arts Commission

When: September 26-October 31, 2008

Opening Reception: Friday, Oct. 3, 2008, from 6–8 p.m.

Hours: Monday - Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. or by appointment.

Where: Cecille R. Hunt Gallery Visual Arts Studio, Webster University 8342 Big Bend Blvd. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday or by  appointment

Cost: Exhibit and reception are free and open to the public.

More Info: Call 968-7171 or art@webster.edu
www.websterhuntgallery.blogspot