Glass scholar to talk about careers for emerging artists

Since the opening of the Marilyn K. Glick Center for Glass in late September, the College of Fine Arts has been bringing glass practitioners to complement the current art and growing glass programs.

Earlier this month, the university brought contemporary artist Ethan Stern to work with students and evaluate their projects.

This time around, the department chose curator, author, critic and glass scholar Davira Taragin to provide insight on the careers of emerging artists in the field.

Taragin's lecture will also discuss glass programs at various universities across the U.S., including Ball State's.

Glass facilities manager, Michael Hernandez, says that unlike 20 years ago, today's artists are using glass in contemporary ways with mixed media and in conceptual political ways by integrating ancient and current techniques.

"It's good to be versatile and understand different processes and ways of working. It opens doors to expression. A lot of people change the way they work once they leave school, so having a broad understanding of processes is important," Hernandez said.

Although the glass program only has one declared major, students will gain a better understanding of how artists are utilizing their glass skills.

Taragin, who has a master's degree in museum studies and art history from George Washington University, is currently working as a curatorial consultant for ceramic sculptor, Dennis Gallagher. Taragin's main duty includes promoting the work of Gallagher in order to gain recognition from museums nationwide.

With more than 30 years experience in the museum industry, Taragin left her mark at Detroit Institute of Art, Toledo Museum of Art and Racine Art Museum where she participated in glass research, development of glass exhibits and establishment of an international traveling exhibition program.

Ball State students will have the opportunity to hear Taragin's presentation on Tuesday, Oct. 19, in the Art and Journalism building, room 225 at 5 p.m.


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