UT Martin hosts Pinkney Herbert’s ‘Multiplicity’ exhibit
Featured image: Pinkney Herbert’s “Chess” painting in the Fine Arts Gallery on Tuesday, Feb. 3, in Martin, Tenn. (Pacer Photo / Ethan Tanner)
Guest artist Pinkney Herbert of Memphis exhibited a variety of abstract, mystifying and colorful paintings in “Multiplicity” at the University of Tennessee at Martin’s Fine Art Gallery starting Tuesday, Jan. 6.
Herbert’s artistry displayed many vague themes and emotions that were beyond comprehension, with vibrant colors of all shades and intensities that made shapes and objects that seemed familiar yet unrecognizable.
One of the most impressive pieces was “Fenee,” a painting that is composed of a green and orange “X” pattern at the top before oozing down into red and orange liquid drops, reminiscent of blood, that ended up forming what looked like a plastic safety fence. The juxtaposition between these very different shapes and patterns makes for an intriguing painting that stimulates the senses and emotions.
Another work that showcased Herbert’s artistic prowess was “Duet,” a painting with two contrasting halves that are made up of various textures and patterns. Whether the painting resembles a starry sky or pouring rain, it emits a strange sense of beauty for the viewer.
There were plenty of other noticeable works in the exhibition including “Chess” and “B/W Signal” which caught the attention of the Fine Arts Gallery workers.
“I like the abstract vibe and the way that he uses color and creates rhythm. It’s completely non-representational, but, as a viewer, you’re allowed to find meaning in it, regardless of what the artist intended, and I think that’s really beautiful,” said Natalie Munday, a sophomore Graphic Design major from Union City.
“A lot of times you look at abstract art, and you wouldn’t really think that it’s intentional. But this one, you can tell by looking at the paintings that there was an intention behind them,” said Maggie Moffett, a junior Graphic Design major from Lebanon.
“Multiplicity” will continue to inspire students in the Fine Arts Gallery until Saturday, Feb. 7.
