The Galleries at CSU, the art exhibition space of Cleveland State University, will be hosting a series of shows this spring by nationally recognized artists, which highlight figure and form in all of its permutations. The exhibitions will formally open with a conversation with the artists at 4 pm, Thursday, March 10 at The Galleries, 1307 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH. The shows run through Saturday, April 16.

In the South Gallery, Ron Kroutel, professor of art at Ohio University, presents “Go Figure – The Lone Figure as Subject.” It showcases compelling images of the human form representing the psychological experience of the isolated individual.  In the Media Room, conceptual artist Blake Cook, Professor of Art at Cuyahoga Community College, presents “Empty Gestures,” innovative experiments in video and sound which explore personal space and intimacy.

In the Center Gallery, Cleveland Heights-based visual artist, musician, and trans advocate Craig Matis offers “Tightrope – Walk the Line” a wall installation that attempts to express the frustration, anger, and isolation that can often be part of living as a trans human being. Finally, in the North Gallery, acclaimed, New York City-based artist Liz Whitney Quisgard presents “The Ornamental Impulse: Form, Pattern, and Color.” It represents two decades of new work in a captivating installation of paintings, sculptures, and textiles.

Quisgard has graciously donated a number of works in the exhibition as a gift to Cleveland State University. The pieces will become part of the Galleries’ permanent collection and will be utilized for research and teaching opportunities as well as for the continued artistic benefit of the Cleveland community.

Admission to the Galleries is free of charge. Hours of operation are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday noon to 5pm, and Saturday and Sunday noon to 7pm. For more information visit, https://www.csuohio.edu/class/art-gallery/art-gallery.