The Gallery at Lakeland is sending shivers down the spine of every visitor this fall with the return of “The Skull and Skeleton in Art VIII: Folk Art to Pop Culture,” on display through Nov. 3, on the first floor of the D-Building on Lakeland’s campus. A costume party and “Boneyard Market” is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 26, from 6-9 p.m., where guests can enjoy light refreshments, purchase artwork and mingle with the artists whose works are on display.

This year’s collection evokes a variety of emotions, from intricate pieces showcasing the dark and mysterious to whimsical and humorous works that tickle the funny bone. Many artistic mediums are represented, including oil/acrylic/watercolor painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, assemblage and even video.

The exhibition also spans the globe, with over 100 national, regional and local artists as well as international artists from Mexico and Denmark.

As curator of the exhibition since 2009, gallery coordinator Mary Urbas uses “The Skull and Skeleton in Art,” in part, to celebrate the cultural diversity and artistic expressions of Mexico. The Lakeland Community College Hispanic Club collaborated with the gallery to create this year’s ofrenda, an altar with offerings for the deceased traditionally present in “Dia de los Muertos,” or “Day of the Dead” celebrations.

“We have seen skulls and skeletons infiltrate the mainstream, popular culture in ways I never imagined when I first envisioned this show 14 years ago,” says Urbas. “The exhibition grows increasingly popular each year amongst people of all ages. Whether one is looking to revel in Halloween festivities, embrace Hispanic Heritage Month or simply admire the sheer number of skeleton-themed works plastered from floor to ceiling, the gallery has a little something for everyone this time around.”

Although this year’s incarnation of “The Skull and Skeleton in Art” will be laid to rest in the days following Halloween, most of the artwork on display is available for purchase through the Arts at Lakeland’s website for those looking to take a piece of the excitement home.

ABOUT THE GALLERY AT LAKELAND

The Gallery at Lakeland presents several art exhibitions each year. Highlights include the annual from WOMAN… exhibition, which is the largest exhibition of female artists in the region; the May Show Juried Art Exhibition; and the crowd pleasing, pop culture related exhibition, “The Skull and Skeleton in Art.”

These exhibitions support and advance recognition of Lakeland’s fine arts academic programs; diversity efforts at the college; community arts groups; and local, regional and national artists.

All gallery shows remain free and open to the public and are wheelchair accessible.

Donations of any amount to the Arts at Lakeland are graciously accepted and always appreciated. Patrons can donate online through the gallery’s website.

Children 14 years of age and younger should be under adult supervision.

Gallery Hours:

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sunday, closed

The Gallery at Lakeland is located at 7700 Clocktower Dr., Kirtland, Ohio, 44094, just off the I-90/State Route 306 exit. Free parking is available.

For more information about shows, patrons can contact Mary Urbas, gallery coordinator at murbas@lakelandcc.edu or call 440.525.7029.

By: Charles Hegedus, Mrktg and Commun Specialist