Pieces examining the issues of the day featured in Fall Arts Celebration art exhibition

The art event for the 2019 Fall Arts Celebration is showcasing contemporary pieces, many of which originate from Grand Valley's carefully developed collection of art in that genre.

The exhibition also pays tribute to the important role that Chicago plays in the contemporary art world and Grand Valley's alliance with the city's art experts to help build its permanent collection. "Art of Today: Contemporary Collections from Chicago" features more than 40 pieces, from paintings to photographs to sculptures, that offer compelling imagery examining the issues of the day, organizers said.

“Contemporary art takes courage and challenges us," said Nathan Kemler, interim director of Galleries and Collections. "This exhibition provides perspectives on today’s society and allows our community to explore complex global themes that widen our awareness and build empathy about the human condition.”

A public exhibition reception is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. Sept. 12 at the Art Gallery in the Haas Center for Performing Arts on the Allendale Campus. The exhibition runs through Nov. 1.

Grand Valley art experts for the past 15 years have assembled a contemporary art collection by working closely with Chicago-based artists, gallery owners and collectors. This exhibition draws from Grand Valley's collection and is augmented by loans from Chicago.

Visitors can expect to see both bold and minimalistic work both explore and examine contemporary issues, organizers said.

For more information, visit gvsu.edu/fallarts. All events are free and open to the public.