Art Exhibition Explores Curiosities of Suburban Life
Milliken Art Gallery will host a selection of drawings by Minneapolis, MN native Jessica Wohl from Aug. 25 through Sept. 22. Titled Obsessive Constructs, the exhibition explores suburban life and how, in Wohl’s words, “Our obsessively crafted, exterior shells pleasantly conform to the masses so that we may be individuals behind closed doors.” Gallery hours are Monday—Friday, 9:00 am—5:00 pm, and Sunday 2:00—5:00 pm. The gallery is closed during school holidays.
The public is invited to hear Wohl discuss her career and art process at a Gallery Talk with the Artist on Thursday, Sept. 8 at 6:00 pm in Milliken Art Gallery, followed by the exhibition’s opening reception at 6:30 pm. The exhibit and events are free admission.
“It is precisely this monotonous mask, this over-copied prototype, which allows us the anonymity and secrecy to conduct our lives in private.”
Obsessive Constructs compels visitors to reflect on their own homes and appearances that they believe are vital to maintain. Wohl says, “The Suburban home is a cultural icon for happiness, a representation of those who have accomplished, attained, earned and succeeded. Simultaneously, it is a protective construct that masks the idiosyncrasies of its residents. It is precisely this monotonous mask, this over-copied prototype, which allows us the anonymity and secrecy to conduct our lives in private.”
Wohl shows her work nationally and internationally in cities such as Miami, Atlanta, Nashville, Kansas City and Helsinki. She has taught at The University of Georgia, Maple Woods Community College, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kansas City Art Institute. Her work is collected by the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, the Sprint-Nextel Corporation, H&R Block World Headquarters, and numerous private citizens.
Wohl received her BFA from Kansas City Art Institute and her MFA from the University of Georgia, and is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor of Art and Art History at The University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee.