Corpus Christi Art Center Hosts James Hetherington’s Newest Exhibit                                     

Defying Gravity and Convention

               The art of illusion is clearly seen in James Hetherington’s newest exhibit, Defying Gravity and Convention, which opens August 5^th and runs through August 30^th at the Corpus Christi Art Center in the Lockett Gallery. Hetherington uses the theme of Defying Gravity and Convention to express his newest sculptural work, smaller-scale pieces that reverse a traditional aesthetic. Works within the collection appear top-heavy and static, designed on an angle that reach somewhere between tipping and maintaining a footing. The center of gravity is weighted toward the base of a mass and by using heavy metal that teeters between falling and remaining erect; he thus creates the illusion of defying gravity and convention.                                                    

The exhibit reflects the artist’s need to master the art of illusion through his work.          He is a multi-faceted sculptor, whose pieces are created to withstand the test of time, working principally with steel and aluminum while sometimes incorporating other time and weather-resistant materials. The collection has evolved from a delicate balance of combined steel forms possessing a meditative, ethereal quality that when tapped or rubbed resonate much like singing vessels. This adds to their contemplative quality and contributes to the sense of a unified work. The show includes two kinetic pieces, which will dance with the slightest breath of wind, capture heat from the sun in order to be mobile, or utilize the energy of water.

“Currently my focus is on public sculpture like the work in Defying Gravity and Convention; it is indicative of the need to redirect our use of resources for conveyance, mobility, development and construction,” said Hetherington when asked the source of his inspiration.

The artist is concerned with relationships and the juxtaposing of common materials, which are transformed into new configurations. Sculpture offers him the opportunity to confront the laws of the physical world while affording him the opportunity to also explore the world of illusion.

The month-long exhibit will be highlighted with a reception at the Art Center Thursday, August 14^th from 5:00pm-7:00pm. Guests will be treated to a special unveiling of Hetherington’s newest work at that time. Art aficionados are certain to receive a visual treat in the Lockett Gallery the evening of August 14^th.