They're like candy, they're in paper form with cartoons drawn on them, or they're sleek capsules with pretty multicolored dots inside. The look and shape of pills, capsules, powders, blotters, et al. can be part of what lulls people into partaking of them. Ericka Richardson's sculptural works examine the aesthetics of drugs and more as presents several substances in her first solo show, Alter.
The works' aesthetics and method of consumption inspired each form, and Alter calls attention to the cultural connotation of each substance. Sculptures are made of nicotine, caffeine, sleeping pills, etc. Richardson doesn't make a statement or stance regarding using the drug represented — the viewer forms his or her own ideas.
After graduation in May, Richardson plans to continue her involvement in the local arts community before seeking her Masters of Fine Arts degree.
DessART, Centre Gallery’s opening reception for this exhibit, will be held today from noon to 1 p.m. and the closing reception will be from 7 to 9 p.m. on Fri., Jan. 31.
The Centre Gallery is located on the second floor of the Marshall Student Center in room 2700, USF Tampa. Gallery hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Continues through Jan. 31. For more info, call 813-974-5464 or visit centregallery.usf.edu.
