The featured exhibition at Brush Gallery is a compilation of mixed media works centered on current and past warfare of all shapes and sizes. Titled, “Seeing the Elephant,” the exhibition will be running until October 10th.

As could be imagined, the powerful messages about war and the viewpoints of the respective artists come through full force.

There is a lot to think about in terms of your own views on violence and the necessity of protecting and defending one’s home country. That being said, this show evokes strong emotions while refraining from gruesome violence. Instead, the featured artists elicit the inner turmoil that occurs during these times of chaos and pain. The overarching themes of conflict and war are as old as art itself, proving to be a great vehicle for subcategories such as political criticisms and emotional catharsis.

The works in the show take us from The Americas to Europe, varying from woodcut prints, propaganda posters, watercolors and sculpture.

Still confused about the title? “Seeing the Elephant” is a phrase that was coined during the Civil War, explaining how a soldier felt when being fired upon as well as the worn down, jaded feeling they were burdened with upon returning from combat. However, some argue the phrase extends back further to the Third Century B.C when Alexander the Great’s Macedonian warriors defeated the elephant, mounted army of King Porus of Pauravas (modern day Pakistan).

All of the works are proudly from our own private collection, and were curated by director Carole Mathey and Melissa Schulenberg, associate professor of Art and Art history. SO, come by to enjoy some art, A.C and me! (Tuesdays and Thursday’s).

I would be happy to talk through the works or partake in a heated art debate!

If you still crave more, come by the gallery discussion with Donna Alvah, Laura Rediehs, and Melissa Schulenberg, Monday, October 5th at 4:30 p.m!