Diana Sexton, Summer Flesh, 2023, oil on canvas, 8 x 8 ft.
This exhibition features large-scale paintings, ceramics works, and mixed-media sculptures created by four Austin Community College Studio Art students. Recommended by faculty, these artists have established artistic styles that explore visceral and vibrant subject matter through the use of scale, color, and textures. This exhibition will be on view July 6 through July 28 in Gallery 2000 (Highland Campus 2.2450) at The Art Galleries (TAG) at Austin Community College.
Artists
Deborah Gruber, Hidden Thoughts, 2023, wood, encaustic wax, wire, cord, feather
Deborah J. Gruber is a visual artist who took a circuitous path to the current exhibition. Leaning into sculpture and 3D art as a tentative explorer, she has redefined her creative direction. Her introduction to art was an Associates degree in Graphic Design, which served as a career jumping off point. This experience evolved into additional undergraduate and graduate degrees, and a path oriented towards marketing and business administration. Working long term with an international scientific research group was a catalyst for travel opportunities and a deep appreciation for art forms from all over the world. Her artwork has been included in juried shows and galleries since 2019.
Stacia Lake, Exploring the Subconscious, 2023, mixed media installation
Anastacia (Stacia) Lake is a student artist at Austin Community College, specializing in 3D art and sculpture. She co-founded the ACC’s 3D Art Club and played a vital role in making sculptural metal casting accessible to students. Anastacia’s dedication to her craft led to her employment as an assistant to Yousif Del Valle, aiding in Design II and Sculpture classes. She received accolades in multiple student art exhibitions at ACC, including second place in digital media, Best in Show, third place in sculpture, and the Chancellor’s award. Anastacia continues to push boundaries and explore the possibilities of 3D art, constantly seeking new avenues for creative expression.
Yen-Yu Lien, Happiness is Where it Starts Family 2 – Green Blueberry, 2023, Porcelain, armstone, porcelain slip, underglazes
Yen-Yu (Yen) Lien, a Taiwanese-born artist who now resides in Austin, Texas. She holds an Associate degree in Graphic Design from Austin Community College and has a background in international trade business. Yen has been involved in student organizations in Taiwan and has served as president and officer of the ACC Student Affairs Center and the ACC Clay Club. Yen’s work has been recognized and exhibited locally and nationally including at the Annual Student Art Exhibition at Austin Community College. Multiple of her ceramic artworks have been nominated for various awards including the 2023 Texas Association of Schools of Art Artovation and the League for Innovation International Student Art.
Diana Sexton, Inner-Outer Space, oil on canvas, 40×30 in.
Diana Sexton is a multimedia artist currently living in Austin, Texas. In addition to her work in traditional media, Diana is a published author, and co-founder and co-director of the award- winning film collective Standard Definition Films. Having recently graduated from Austin Community College with an Associate degree in Studio Art, she is now pursuing her BFA at Texas State University.