Local artist Ann Brugenhemke to showcase work in CSM's Hillmer Art Gallery
OMAHA, NEB. – Omaha artist Ann Brugenhemke will have her artwork on display starting this month in College of Saint Mary’s Hillmer Art Gallery. The exhibit, which will include an impressive collection of paintings and drawings, will be celebrated with an opening reception on Nov. 8th from 5-7 pm. Brugenhemke’s art will be on display October 29th through December 14th.
The collection will include paintings and elaborate pastel drawings of botanical subjects and the natural world. She says much of the art displayed will highlight natural beauty, gripping shapes, and nature’s reflection of human qualities.
“When I look at a flower and just the way it catches the light or is hiding its preciousness, it conjures up human qualities for me,” she said. “For some reason it grabs me in that way. It’s symbolic of something deeper for me.”
Her art will also invite onlookers to appreciate the natural world, considering its delicate and finite characteristics.
"I don't think we can really know how long we will be able to see certain things in our world, on our planet," she said. "I feel compelled to represent these things. It has to do with my own need to savor these parts of nature that are fleeting."
The exhibit is part of an ongoing initiative at College of Saint Mary to enrich the community through art, encourage dignity of all people, and inspire lifelong learning – all within an inclusive campus environment. Brugenhemke says she hopes her art will connect visitors with themselves as well as inspire a deeper appreciation for all life.
“I think almost any time you have original artwork in an environment, it elevates the atmosphere,” she said. “I hope it is kind of a reminder of value of a living thing…I hope it causes people to look a little bit longer at the natural world.”
Brugenhemke holds a Bachelor in Fine Arts, with her thesis in painting, from University of Nebraska – Omaha. The exhibit is open to the public and will take place in College of Saint Mary’s Hillmer Art Gallery. Food and drinks will be available at the opening reception on Nov. 8th.
