The University Museum will exhibit Ben Butler’s sculpture exhibit, “Intervals and Disturbances” until December 18.
Butler received his masters of fine arts in sculpture from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2003 and currently lives and works in both Memphis and Quogue, New York.
“Intervals and Disturbances” is a collection of abstract sculptures completed over the last 10 years, and the sculptures, made primarily of wood with a concrete casting, are designed to evoke growth, erosion, accumulation and dissection from the views. These elements may be evoked separately or together as one.
Butler prefers to see things as a natural, pure process rather than a series of objects.
UM Museum’s collector manager Marti Funke said Butler’s sculptures are a unique experience.
“The natural elements of the wood and concrete evoke thoughts of natural movements and processes,” Funke said. “As visitors go through the galleries they will see so many intricate details, as well as large scale works that all can be viewed in the round.”
She hopes that the collection will surprise regular visitors and bring in a crowd of new members.
Butler has always had an interest in art, and through his college experiences, he has allowed the investigative skills of a scientist to creep into his life.
“That’s something I still love about being an artist,” Butler said. “I can pursue different interests and study up on different things and pick and choose what I end up incorporating into my work.”
In addition to the exhibition, on November 14 from 10 a.m. to noon the UM Museum will host a family activity day inspired by “Intervals and Disturbances.”
All are encouraged to come and see the wonderful abstract works of Butler and others on display. The University of Mississippi’s Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and is free for all University of Mississippi students, staff, faculty members and children under five years of age.
