Mary S. Byrd Gallery of Art presents Cumberland Island exhibit

By Rakiyah Lenon | Co-editor in chief

The Mary S. Byrd Gallery of Art has is displaying a Cumberland Island Art exhibition featuring works from artists Christa Bowden, Emily J. Gomez and Ernesto Gomez.

The exhibit features a collection of cyanotypes by Mrs. Gomez, abstract artworks from Mr. Gomez and various black and white portraits between Bowden and Mrs. Gomez. There is a projector displaying multiple photographs between the two artists as well.

Shannon Morris, gallery director since 2016, explained the process of choosing works that flow together harmoniously for the gallery. Having worked with the artists, she was able to oversee the unification of the artwork.

“We try to pick art that would appeal to our students,” she said.

According to Morris, the artists have collaboratively worked on the project since 2016 in order to bring awareness to the changing climate. In addition to the artwork, there is a sound exhibition capturing sounds from the island off the coast of Georgia consisting of chirping birds, rushing waters and passing vehicles.

“It’s a beautiful combination of texture and light,” she said. “The sound really helps.”

 The National Park System recognized Cumberland Island in 1972 and became part of its national parks because of the various ecosystems and historical significance in contains.

Morris explained that the Mary S. Byrd Gallery of Art is the first space to present the exhibition in Georgia. 

“I think people will enjoy it. It’s very peaceful,” she said.

Students and faculty are welcome to visit the gallery 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in Washington Hall on the Summerville campus. Visitors can learn about the artists’ biographies as well as information about the region.

Students and staff can also visit https://www.augusta.edu/pamplin/art/gallery/ for details about future art exhibitions.

Contact Rakiyah Lenon at rlenon@augusta.edu.

“Vultures on a Trail to Dungeness Beach” (right) and “Horse Bones on North End” (left) by Emily J. Gomez were taken in 2017 and is one of many framed photographs on display.

At top of page, a portrait by Emily J. Gomez displayed on a projector reflects on abstract paintings by her husband Ernesto Gomez. (photos by Rakiyah Lenon)