Doster selected featured sculptor at Upstate

USC Upstate has selected Bob Doster, an internationally known artist, as the featured sculptor for the 2008-09 season.

Doster's unique style of metal design ranges from the whimsical feel of free-floating steel in multi-colored tables and accent pieces to the distinction of monumental sculpture. The Doster exhibition includes six pieces of his work showcased on the Upstate campus. An artist lecture and reception will be held in the fall.

Many of Doster's works are abstractions similar to the sculpture permanently installed on campus, but one work in particular is a narrative work that uses the iconic symbol of a cross. The form is covered in narrative information and imagery that is related to the history of abuse and misuse of such iconic symbols. The imagery includes elements related to power, religion, politics, race, and ethnicity. These powerful, emotional, and difficult subjects often generate passionate discussion.

"This particular piece has generated much discussion among the Upstate community," said Jane Nodine, a professor of art and director of the University Gallery at USC Upstate. "This is exactly the function of many of the exhibitions and works of art we present and display for pedagogical purposes."

The other work is a portal piece that resembles an inverted sun and might be interpreted as a pagan symbol. Other works in the exhibition include abstract fabricated sculptures in stainless and corten steel with oxidized patinas and brushed surfaces.

Nodine has encouraged students to view the sculptures and have discussions relating to such topics as censorship, freedom of expression, the definition and purpose of art, and how the media influences our interpretation of art.

"Art is important because it challenges our ideas and emotions; it evokes certain responses within us, and it has the power to bring about change," said Mallory Long, a senior majoring in art education from Wellford. "Doster's work is a reminder of the struggles of our past. If we forget the mistakes of our past, we repeat them."

Nodine said she is excited to see students so passionate in their discussions of the new sculpture installation on campus, both pro and con, which led to issues that directly affect them as students and citizens of the community.

"My printing class had a stimulating discussion about their rights to access information, issues of censorship, freedom of expression, applying critical thinking skills, and getting an education that prepares them for a global society," Nodine said.

Doster already has spoken to students, who asked questions about his techniques and what messages he hoped to convey with his artwork, especially the cross.

"I don't have a particular message to send, but I want you to discuss the piece and what it could mean," Doster said. "This sculpture is paving the way for dialogue that may be uncomfortable for you; but you are talking, and that's good. You all have valid opinions. The fact that students are discussing their beliefs and opinions is a good thing. Perhaps it will help you understand each other better. You may even be able to solve some of the world's problems."

Doster received a BFA from Carolina and an MFA from Clemson University. He has exhibited his work in New York City, Rome, and Venice. Doster's Backstreet Studio is in Lancaster.

For more information, contact Doster at 803-285-9190 or Jane Nodine at 52-5838.

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