For over two decades Tim Massey served as the Gallery Director for the Tower Fine Arts Center Gallery. A farewell exhibition is being held featuring his past student’s work along with his.
As stated in the event’s description, “Rather than shine the spotlight on himself [Massey], he took the invitation to do a ‘farewell’ exhibition as a chance to also share the work of his former students.” Each student provided a piece they created while being Massey’s student, paired with a more recent piece. Art by Torrell Arnold, ‘13, Emma Brooks, ‘13, Kat Charnley, ‘17, Pat Curry, ‘12, Meaghan Malerk, ‘16, Katie Ann Mertz, ‘10, Kathryn Smith, ‘08, and Sam Symonds, ‘22, is featured.
For Massey and Friends: Looking Back, Looking Forward, Massey’s works wrap around the gallery walls, while his former students’ work is displayed in an arrangement in the center of the room.
“I think having it all laid out deliberately is really interesting visually. You really get to see the inside of what he was thinking as you travel through the entire gallery,” exhibition visitor Ivy Caravaty said.
Massey has provided many of his own pieces from several years. Some of which was created during his time working at Brockport, as well as newer ones created during his retirement. His work lines the walls blending together with thoughtful layering, motifs and colors.
“I like how all his pieces go together. You can tell it’s all by him; they have similar aspects,” sophomore Trinity Garwood said.
The former students’ pieces hold a variety of art styles and mediums. Each student has a section displaying their paired pieces, as well as descriptions of themselves and the paths they’ve taken after working under Massey’s wing. The display represents the growth these students have gone through as artists.
“You walk through and you can see the progression of everything,” Caravty said.
Alongside the works of art is a conglomerate of Massey’s stray sketchbook notes, exhibition statements and artistic musings.
The exhibition is open until Sunday March 5 in Tower Fine Arts Center Gallery. It is free and open to the public, so come enjoy these dynamic works of art.
Gallery hours: Monday – Friday: Noon – 5 p.m., Sunday: 1 – 4 p.m.
