The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Department of Performing and Visual Arts will welcome ceramic artist Jason Briggs on Thursday, Oct. 6 and Friday, Oct. 7 for two days of live demonstrations, an artist lecture and discussions with students about their work and ideas.
“Having access to an internationally recognized artist at the top of his game is an invaluable opportunity for our students,” said Scott Steder, lecturer of art at UW-Platteville. “The demonstrations give an in-depth look into technical processes, and the lecture will breathe life into the concepts he explores.”
Briggs has numerous publications and a long exhibition history with works shown in galleries across the globe. Originally from Wausau, Wisconsin, he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from UW-Whitewater and his Master of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Briggs served three years as artist in residence at the Appalachian Center for Crafts in Smithville, Tennessee. From 1999-2012, he ran the Ceramics department for Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee.
"His pieces have the compelling ability to simultaneously repel and intrigue you,” said Steder. “They are foreign, yet familiar. I find myself mesmerized by the content, refined surfaces and obsessive attention to detail."
Live demonstrations will take place on Oct. 6 and Oct. 7 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Art Building, Ceramics Studio 111. He will present a lecture on Oct. 6 at 5 p.m. in Doudna Hall, Room 103. Events are open to the public.
Briggs’ work is also on display in the Nohr Gallery inside Ullsvik Hall until Oct. 10, as a part of the Figure in Multiple Dimensions exhibition.