Exhibition runs February 10, 2018 through April 8, 2018

Comprised of artwork created by faculty and students from the School of Art + Design, Transforming Existence explores Surrealism with works ranging from those that were inspired by the movement’s icons such as Salvador Dali, René Magritte, Joan Miró, and Dorothea Tanning to contemporary approaches, transporting us into the mind’s eye of each artist. The selection in Transforming Existence investigates the ways surrealistic combinations allow artists to understand personal experiences, relationships, and society, employing imagery depicting the absurd or strange to elements that promote introspection.

André Breton, recognized as the creator of Surrealism stated, “Surrealism is not just an art movement; it is a way of thinking, a way of life, a way of transforming existence.” Since its creation nearly a century ago, Surrealism has remained a relevant and unbridled liberation of the subconscious, infused into all art forms from drawing, painting, sculpture, and ceramics to jewelry, photography, graphic design, and digital art. Transforming Existence is the fourth in an annual series of exhibitions inspired by San Diego State University’s campus-wide initiative, the Common Experience and the current theme “Experience Imagination.”

Transforming Existence is organized by the SDSU Downtown Gallery. The exhibition and events are sponsored by the SDSU Common Experience, the School of Art + Design, the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts, and Arts Alive SDSU. Additional support is provided by the San Diego State University Art Council Ambassadors.

Events:

Thursday, February 15, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Opening Reception with the Artists
SDSU Downtown Gallery

Thursday, March 15, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Downtown at Sundown
SDSU Downtown Gallery

All events are free and open to the public.
Thursday through Monday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
(closed Tuesday and Wednesday)