Hidden in the Layers

Hidden in the Layers features two artists, Charles Suggs (CFA’20) and Joshua Brennan (Technical Associate, Printmaking and Photography; Lecturer, Printmaking). Working in mostly black and white, Suggs uses the woodblock technique to capture the human body in uniquely haunting, yet beautiful forms. Suggs’ printmaking heavily influences his new media works which focuses on his experience as a black man moving through the world. Josh Brennan incorporates both print-based and photo-based techniques within his practice. Brennan’s cutting-edge experiments with printmaking creates vibrant, abstract works with an exacting attention to detail.

Flat and colorful designs, black and white figures, and abstract compositions create the works in this exhibition…but there is more than meets the eye. This selection of work brims with hidden and not-so-hidden meaning. From drawing inspiration from the old masters to highlighting motherhood to reacting to the current political landscapes – all seemingly disparate themes – these works are connected by their deeply layered, meaningful intentions. These prints are more than just the finished work on the walls; they are an exploration into the human condition.

By experimenting with different mediums (ranging from billboard vinyl to photographic collaging), these artists expand on traditional printmaking techniques to create their own unique and wildly-varying styles, while simultaneously connecting in their search of deeper meaning of the world through the vehicle of their craft.

Other artists featured in the exhibition are Toni Pepe (Assistant Professor of Art; Chair, Department of Photography), Deborah Cornell (Professor of Art, Printmaking; Chair of Printmaking), and Lynne Allen (Professor of Art, Printmaking; Chair of Print Media & Photography). These female printmakers are accomplished artists within their field. Pepe, Cornell and Allen have mentored both Suggs and Brennan with influences of their teachings seen in the artwork included in this exhibition.

Boston University Art Galleries 2024 Exhibitions in Venice Showcase BU Artists

BU College of Fine Arts alumni, faculty, and students feature a breadth of work in two shows at A plus A Gallery in Venice, Italy, concurrent with the Venice Biennale

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Untitled, 2024. Image courtesy of Josh Brennan.