The Artistry to Launch ‘Artifacts of What?’ Exhibit
The art scene of Greenville is set to welcome a unique attraction next month. The Artistry, a popular art gallery located at 12 Andrews Street, will be the host venue for an innovative art exhibit called ‘Artifacts of What?‘, which is scheduled to run from August 2 to August 30.
About the Exhibit and the Artist
The exhibit features around 25 pieces of work by Rial Rye, an acclaimed Atlanta-based artist who brings a distinctive approach to contemporary art. Rye is known for curating his artwork primarily from recycled and reclaimed materials like cabinets, tabletops, and toys, combining them with elements such as resin and cement to produce strikingly unique pieces of art.
Speaking about the exhibit, Rye says it’s an attempt to delve into his heritage and wider cultural milieu. “Artifacts of What? is me questioning my ancestry, cultural background and ethnicity. Being biracial and queer, there are not many artifacts or related historical materials I can relate to. This is an examination on being a misfit and most importantly, trying to figure out where I belong,” Rye said.
Rial Rye’s Hunt for a “Visual Language”
Rye further explains that his struggle to find cultural touchpoints reflects his personal journey. “Growing up I never saw someone who looked like me, and in my art practice, it has become very clear that there is no visual language for biracialism. So, my desire is to, if not create a visual language for it, draw attention to the lack of it.”
In pieces like ‘Two-Toned Xylophone‘ and ‘Cry (in Chaos)‘, Rye’s unique style and perspective shine through, prompting viewers to reconsider their perceptions of identity and belonging.
Exhibit Details
“Artifacts of What?” will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Visitor appointments can also be scheduled. For more information about the exhibit, or to book an appointment, enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the official website of the gallery at theartistrygallery.com.
The Artistry continues to celebrate talent and facilitate discourse that revives the importance of art in shaping personal and societal narratives. The ‘Artifacts of What?’ exhibition is likely to cause a stir among art lovers, critics, and casual observers alike, making it a must-visit event in Greenville this August.
