Date: Jun 15, 2009

Hofstra University Museum Presents Burton Morris: Pop!

Original Exhibition Features A Post-Pop Style Spin On Popular American Icons

Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY – The Hofstra University Museum presents an original exhibition from the highly acclaimed artist Burton Morris, whose personal world of popular American icons puts a delightful spin on everyday objects and motifs. Burton Morris: Pop! will be on display July 14 through September 27, 2009 in the Hofstra University Museum, Emily Lowe Gallery, South Campus.

The exhibit features more than 35 examples of Mr. Morris’ work in his post-Pop style that boldly projects high energy and fun. He employs some of the shorthand gestures of comic strips and magazines he has loved and emulated since childhood. These classic devices are seen in his simplified forms and action lines indicating movement joined with his rich acrylic colors.

Mr. Morris’ art is imbued with his own impeccable style and optimistic frame of mind and his paintings energize everyday images. Subjects such as a steaming coffee cup, a swirling martini and a dancing popcorn box all take on a new life under his skillfully employed paintbrush. His work has been commissioned for the television sitcom Friends, for the Olympics, the United Nations, and the Academy Awards among other international clients.

“We are pleased to offer this exhibition which will have broad appeal, as the images created by this gifted artist are engaging and contemporary,” said Hofstra University Museum Executive Director Beth E. Levinthal. “Through Burton Morris’ skillful employment of his technique he creates a world that is simultaneously dynamic and inviting for the viewer.”

Of his art, Mr. Morris states: “My artwork celebrates beauty and life while projecting an optimistic sense of high energy and style. I choose to paint objects and icons. I want to challenge the way we view everyday ideas in our modern day culture by representing the common object singularly, reducing it to an iconic graphic form and adding an energetic and colorful twist.”

The Hofstra University Museum has been awarded the highest honor a museum can receive, continued accreditation by the American Association of Museums (AAM). Approximately less than 4 % of museums nationwide have earned this distinguished recognition. Accreditation certifies that the Hofstra University Museum operates according to professional standards, manages its collections responsibly and provides quality service to the public.

Hofstra University is a dynamic private institution where students can choose from about 150 undergraduate and more than 160 graduate programs in liberal arts and sciences, business; engineering; communication; education, health and human services;  and honors studies, as well as a School of Law.

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