Exhibitions

SHANNA GLAWSON: AN UNBEARABLE ILLUMINATION OF TRUTH

Slocumb Galleries (ETSU) / 232 Sherrod Dr., Johnson City, TN March 22, 2021 - April 9, 2021

Shanna Glawson

An Unbearable Illumination of Truth is a series of sculptures created by ETSU's MFA Studio Arts Graduate sculpture student Shanna Glawson. This sculptural thesis exhibition work addresses economic, occupational, childhood, sexual, and gender-based trauma. This exhibition was not only generated out of the artist’s own personal trauma but retold through the experiences of others as well. The sculptures utilize visual metaphors to express narratives of the varying types of traumas. A broad range of sculptural materials (such as wood, fabric, and found objects) and methods are used to create these depictive forms. Shelters are referenced throughout this entire body of work as an allegory for identity. The juxtaposition of shelters with other forms and materials visually enacts the themes of vulnerability and intrigue that embodies traumatic incidents. Ultimately, this work is intended to induce empathy and raise awareness of important, underlying social issues that revolve around trauma. This message is especially important today due to a dramatic increase of trauma related issues as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic.