Date: Sep 01, 2011

Hofstra University Museum Presents “Burton Silverman: The Humanist Spirit”

Exhibition Examines Commonalities of Existence of “Everyman” Through Contemporary Realist Portraits

Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY – The exhibition Burton Silverman: The Humanist Spirit, on view from September 1 through December 16, 2011 in the Hofstra University Museum’s Emily Lowe Gallery, demonstrates the continuing power of the realist tradition in the 21st century, as the artist examines the commonalities of existence of everyman through his contemporary realist portraits.  

In his paintings Burton Silverman balances formal visual elements and realistic representation to capture the essence of his subjects. His primary subjects, ordinary working people, are elevated to a stature of dignity and importance in which they are rarely seen. The individuality of his sitter is evident in the painting, as is the universality of their life experience.

 “The Museum is pleased to highlight the work of the acclaimed artist Burton Silverman. His powerful portraits convey the dignity inherent in the individuals he portrays,” said Executive Director of the Hofstra University Museum Beth E. Levinthal. “His work also brings an opportunity for strong connections to the multiple facets of the humanities such as dance, music and poetry which will be explored in public programs during the exhibition. The Museum gratefully acknowledges Astoria Federal Savings for their support in bringing this exhibition to the public.”

An illustrated catalog, Burton Silverman: The Humanist Spirit with an essay by art historian and University of Minnesota faculty member, Gabe Weisberg, accompanies the exhibit. The exhibit consists of over 25 oil paintings as well as sketchbooks with studies for some of the exhibited paintings.

An artist reception will take place on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 2:30 p.m. in the Emily Lowe Gallery. The reception will also feature a performance of original interpretive dances by Hofstra University students under the direction of Adjunct Associate Professor of Drama and Dance, Dyane Harvey. Immediately preceding the reception, at 2 p.m., Burton Silverman will offer a walk-through the exhibition sharing his thoughts on his work and creative processes.

Other public programming related to the exhibition includes Looking at Art 101, a workshop led by Hofstra University Museum Education Director Nancy Richner, guiding attendees to discover and enhance their ability to interpret and discuss works of art to be offered on November 9, 2011 from 11:15 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The Museum will also launch a new public program, Sketching in the Galleries, in which viewers are invited to use the works on view as inspiration to create their own works using materials supplied by the Museum. The program is offered free on Wednesdays, from 11:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

For more information on this exhibit and associated public programs please call (516) 463-5672 or visit the Hofstra University website at www.hofstra.edu/museum.

The Hofstra University Museum has been awarded the highest honor a museum can receive, continued accreditation by the American Association of Museums (AAM). Approximately 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 of higher education where more than 12,000 full and part-time students choose from undergraduate and graduate offerings in liberal arts and sciences, business, engineering, communication, education, health and human services, honors studies, a School of Law and the Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine.

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