"Wet Market" in “Pearl of the Orient Seas" at the Black Hawk College ArtSpace Gallery -- through September 26.
Exhibit: Through Friday, September 26
Closing Reception: Thursday, September 25, 2 – 5:15 p.m.
Black Hawk College ArtSpace Gallery, Building 4, 6600 34th Avenue, Moline IL
A series of beautiful and expressive serigraph prints by Black Hawk College alum Jae Florence Corales are on display in the college's ArtSpace Gallery through 26, with Pearl of the Orient Seas showcasing new works by the Filipino visual artist, graphic designer, and filmmaker currently based in Augusta, Georgia.
Corales earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design with a minor in computer science from Western Illinois University this past May, and before transferring to WIU, he was an award-winning art student at Black Hawk College: In his artist statement, Corales says, "Because I grew up in the Philippines, I enjoy making works that tells story, often drawing inspiration from my experiences as a Filipino.
"As a graphic designer, I fell in love with the process in serigraphy. I get to translate my digital design process into print. The way I build digital artwork in layers closely mirrors how I approach screen printing.
"I create art that captures life, drawing inspiration from my personal experiences, Filipino heritage and the stories of everyday moments. My work explores emotions, politics and storytelling. Through digital art, serigraphy and painting. I enjoy layering color, shadow and highlights to create images that capture the everyday, the resilience of my people, and quiet reflection of the past."
"My work explores both the beauty and the struggle within Philippine history and society, a contrast that I embrace to show the depth of the being Filipino. My goal is to connect with viewers on a deep emotional level, inviting them to see both light and discord within the details of my work.
"Much of my art is rooted in memory, whether it’s immortalizing moments from my photographs, reflecting the realities of life in the Philippines, or weaving political themes as reminders of our shared history. I see art as a way to freeze moments and emotions, capturing what changes over time. I aim to simplify complexity, using bold, minimal designs and intentional color choices to communicate meaning."
A closing reception for Pearl of the Orient Seas will be held in Black Hawk College's ArtSpace Gallery on September 25, with the event held from 4 to 5:15 p.m. and light refreshments served. The gallery is located on the first floor of the college's Building 4, admission is free, and more information on the exhibit running through September 26 is available by e-mailing ArtDesign@bhc.edu and visiting Facebook.com/BHCArtDesign.
