June Artist – Marsha Egan
Biography/Artist’s Statement
Marsha C. Egan is a school psychologist living in the Syracuse area. Holding advanced degrees in both education, from Syracuse University, and psychology from Oswego State University College, she is a member of the CNY Art Guild, and the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrations. She recently wrote and illustrated a children’s book, RAYS SLIP, SLAP! Creatures of the Sea From A to Z.
“As an artist, my work product has evolved over time to include both representational and non-representational genres. Embracing mixed media, acrylic, and watercolor techniques, with an emphasis on texture, metallic, and interpretive content, my intent is to elicit an emotional response from the viewer. I am influenced by everything I see, feel, and experience. The title of this exhibit, Passages: From Ancient to Present attempts to reflect the universal concept of the passage of time”
ARTIST AS ALCHEMIST
Historically, alchemists were noted for transforming metals into gold, from the simple to the precious. These ancient scientists were searching for perfection through creative activity. Heavily influenced by religious beliefs, alchemy was practiced in many early cultures including China, Islam, Greece, Italy (Renaissance), and finally the Western world. Shepard (1986) defined alchemy as “…the art of liberating parts of the cosmos from temporal existence, and achieving perfection which for metals is gold, and for man, longevity, immortality, and finally redemption.” My interpretation of the artist as alchemist involves the transformation of a blank canvas into an object of thought and/or emotion—from the simple to the precious.
If you are interested in displaying your artwork at the Health Sciences Library please contact Olivia Maggio at maggioj@upstate.edu or 315-464-7200.