Bill Hosterman describes his artwork to an Art Gallery visitor during
the reception for 'Full Circle: Teaching, Creating, and Curating.'
Photo Credit: Thomas Garrett
Currently on exhibit at the GVSU Art Gallery is the sabbatical work
of professor Bill Hosterman and the artist he called a "pivotal
influence" in his career.
"Full Circle: Teaching, Creating, and Curating" includes
the wood printing, relief and intaglio works by Hosterman, professor
in foundations, drawing and printmaking, and a collection of works
from Kathy Caraccio’s Printing Studio and Collection in New York City.
The work combines prints from live-edge wood planks with Hosterman’s
hand-drawn work that reflects his history and sense of place, growing
up and living in the wooded areas of Pennsylvania and Michigan. He
said he spent evenings splitting logs as a young boy and the material
holds a deep connection to the exhibit's main themes.
“Layered with it is my contribution, which offers an imprint of my
instinct as a person and an artist, as well as a reflection and
response to the source. The process is highly physical,” Hosterman said.
This collection represents teaching and lifelong learning, starting
with the mentorship provided by Caraccio to Hosterman in his early
career. He originally met Caraccio as an undergraduate student and
returned to her printmaking shop to work as an intern. Hosterman said
it was an experience that proved pivotal in his career.
Nathan Kemler, director of galleries and collections, said both
Caraccio and Hosterman are active learners who challenge themselves to
expand their perspectives and knowledge by looking to others.
“They are also both passionate teachers and established leaders in
their field, eager to come alongside others to support their own
creative endeavors," Kemler said. "This exchange of
knowledge and continued lifelong pursuit of learning is critical for
one’s well-being and the broader health of the communities we serve."
With a mentorship that has developed over the years, students get the
opportunity to witness the learning and sharing of knowledge within a
community. The exhibit features museum-quality prints from 27
different artists from Caraccio’s collection, and the work of Hosterman.
“How wonderful that students can see and share in the scholarship of
a professor, both in his effort to create artwork born out of
‘history, relationships, place, and meaning’ and in his desire to
showcase artwork from his mentor’s collection of over 5,000 works,”
said Joel Zwart, curator of exhibitions and collections.
This exhibit will be on display until March 29. To see gallery hours
or learn additional details about the artists, visit the
Art Gallery website.