Breaking Down Barriers through Visual Arts
The theme is short and simple: Beyond Barriers. But the underlying message, and the interpretation by more than 25 visual artists, is wide-ranging and diverse.
The juried show at The Bridge Art Gallery, located within the University of Rochester Medical Center, explores the barriers between people that hinder their ability to care for each other or to receive care for themselves. Through a variety of media, the exhibit inspires visitors to consider many different meanings of the term “barrier.” It also examines the struggles and rewards living organisms experience while trying to overcome barriers.
The selected works delve into personal stories of despair and spiritual awakening, stark mechanical shapes and Mother Nature’s exuberance, soldiers launching grenades and infants playing with toys. In Ghost Trolley, photographer Bob Reeves uses Photoshop to spread modern graffiti over an old trolley and set it on an abandoned track – overcoming boundaries with his imagination.
The exhibit is on display now through June. The gallery is holding an Artist Reception on Tuesday, April 30 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Located on the 1st floor entrance to Strong Behavioral Health, the event is free and open to the public. Directions to the gallery and parking information are available online or by calling 585-275-3571.
The Bridge Art Gallery was created in 2011 by the URMC Department of Psychiatry’s Office of Mental Health Promotion to provide a space for local artists and the community to enjoy -- while also creating a welcoming environment for patients, families, and employees of Strong Behavioral Health. The goal is to diminish the stigma and hesitance associated with entering the Department of Psychiatry.