Limestone Art Gallery Presents Senior Showcase “Death, Upright”

The Limestone University Art Program is proud to present the first of several Senior Showcases for the Spring semester. Death, Upright, a thought-provoking exhibit by art student Theo Bird, is now on display at the Limestone University Art Gallery, located in the Hines & Riggins Center. This collection is open for public viewing through February 20.

An opening reception and artist talk will take place on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 6 p.m., at the Limestone University Art Gallery. The event is free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for art enthusiasts and the community to engage with the artist and the themes explored in the exhibit.

Bird’s exhibit, Death, Upright, draws on a rich tapestry of artistic techniques, including crochet, papercutting, photography, book arts, and mixed media, to explore the symbolism of Death (XIII) from the Major Arcana in traditional tarot decks. The collection uses this archetype to delve into the concepts of change, fear, and personal transformation, focusing on the duality of the Death card. While the upright Death card symbolizes inevitable change and positive growth, its inverted counterpart represents stagnation caused by the fear of transition.

“This collection is a personal reflection on a pattern of rejecting change out of fear and the emotional malaise that results from this stagnation,” Bird explained. “But most importantly, it is a hopeful encouragement to embrace inevitable transitions in life and seek positive transformation within oneself.”

In addition to tarot symbolism, Bird’s work is deeply influenced by his rural upbringing and the rich cultural elements of folklore, fairytales, and humanity’s fascination with shadow. The exhibit also pays homage to the craft traditions passed down through the women in Bird’s family, who are skilled crafters and fiber artists. Notable artistic influences on the collection include Sally Mann, Clarence John Laughlin, and Hugo Simberg.

The Death, Upright exhibit invites viewers to confront their own perceptions of change, fear, and growth, offering a unique visual narrative that is both introspective and universally relatable.

The Limestone University Art Gallery is located at 1115 College Drive, Gaffney. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.

About Limestone University Art Program

The Limestone University Art Program offers a dynamic environment for students to explore and develop their creative talents. Providing hands-on experience in a variety of mediums, the program emphasizes artistic innovation, critical thinking, and the personal expression of students. The Limestone University Art Gallery showcases the work of student, faculty, and professional artists, offering a venue for community engagement with the arts. Learn more at www.limestone.edu.