The Abandoned Found at ESU

The East Stroudsburg University of PA (ESU) held an Artist’s Reception in their Madelon Powers Gallery located within the Fine and Performing Arts Center on Wednesday October 5th for their exhibition titled, “From Dublin to Durango” featuring the work of Professor Herb Weigand. The work depicted geographical areas located in The Wicklow Mountains which are South of Dublin, Ireland and the cliffs Mesa Verde which are in the South Western United States. Both areas have been abandoned by those who dwell there and each has its own haunting unexplained story to why this is so.

Professor Weigand captures the haunting aspects of these areas although one can sense in more prevalently in the images of the Mesa Verde. This may be due to the arid environment of the region which cries out for the assumption of barrenness to be applied by those who view its depictions while the plush greenery of the Irish landscape connotes an area teaming with life and abundance. However, as with many things we encounter throughout our lives, appearances have their ability to deceive our initial perceptions and a deeper revelation can be gained upon further explorations.

These explorations may encourage one to go beyond the geographical images displayed in the exhibit to ponder our perceptions of the nature of abandonment and its effects on those who are left behind. Many such people have the obvious signs of the state which resemble the desolation found in the Mesa Verde. Yet, many who have been abandoned present themselves as nonchalant survivors whose busy lives are filled with so many distractions there is little time to reflect upon the pain they suffer when they first realized something or someone they once held dear will never be with them again.

The exhibition continues it showing at The Madelon Powers Gallery until November 22nd. It is filled with work capturing the flavor of it’s landscapes along with the essences (obvious and layered over) of their abandoned state. Those who would like to explore the ruins of an abandoned site which may lead them to discover the depths of the concept within themselves are encouraged to visit. You’ll find more photographs I took during the “From Dublin to Durango” reception in the Visual Arts 2011 Gallery Part 2 at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150316388700421.390846.636000420&l=559eabb691&type=1.

The next Exhibition at the gallery will be the university’s semester review featuring the work of students enrolled in their art studio classes. The exhibit is scheduled to take place from November 29th until December 7th. The date of the Artists’ Reception is yet to be announced. Please Contact The ESU Art Department at 570-422-3483 for more information.