Wiegand Gallery showcases Paul Thiebaud
Stephanie Scalise
Issue date: 9/27/07 Section: Entertainment
- Page 1 of 1
|
The exhibit features Retablos, a mix of European and Traditional Spanish art depicting religious and devotional scenes using oil paint on different types of materials such as tin, zinc, wood, and copper. The word "retablo" means behind the altar in Spanish, because the artwork is often found in home and church altars.
The art form was introduced to the Mexican culture by the Spanish who had converted the Natives. Praying to the retablos as a remedy for situations such as healing for the sick or sinful, as well as for more rain or a good harvest, is still practiced today. "[Retablos] go beyond just art; they are magical," says Wiegand Gallery Director, Robert Poplack.
Thiebaud's collection includes a broad range in styles, scenes, and Catholic saints. He began his collection when was 19. The works were all made in Mexico by anonymous artists. Thiebaud chooses his pieces for his collection based on a higher level of artistry compared to historical significance. The collection varies in condition because they range from different periods of time.
"Retablos: Behind the Altar" came to NDNU by default as a suggestion from another art collector. Poplack believes that this exhibit is even better. He hopes students will "learn from the range of different retablos that were made."
The opening reception will be on Sept. 30 from 3-4 p.m. Free Mexican food will be served. The exhibit runs through Nov. 3. The gallery is open on Tuesday-Saturday from noon- 4 p.m. The gallery will be closed on Oct. 24.
Be the first to comment on this story