Devilish theme to SPSCC art exhibit inspires wide range of submissions

South Puget Sound Community College’s Fine Art Postcard Exhibition, which invites artists and non-artists alike to create and show 4- by 6-inch works, has developed a reputation as a particularly fun art show.

It’s not hard to figure out why. Each year, there’s a theme, a clever turn of phrase such as “Wish You Were Here,” “While You Were Out” or, this year, “Devil’s in the Details.”

The show, on view through Feb. 4 in the campus gallery and indefinitely online, includes 147 pieces by 56 people whose approaches to the theme range from disturbing (Gail Ramsey-Wharton’s cards that read like the ramblings of a mad person) to humorously literal (Carol Hannum’s devil with his head caught in the A of the word “details”) and from political (April Works’ commentary on Brexit) to whimsical (at least three artists depicting deviled eggs).

“As usual, the show is eclectic,” said gallery coordinator and director Sean Barnes.

Some pieces are punny. Helen Keiser’s fabric “De-Tailed Devil” shows a big-eyed devil in tennis shoes, his tail lying behind him.

Some images are highly detailed, perhaps addressing at least part of the theme, and more than a few appear to have completely ignored the theme — which is perfectly fine with Barnes.

“We have a lot of artists who are addressing the theme directly and then a lot of contributors who just donate abstract works for the love of making,” he told The Olympian.

Some donate out of devotion to the gallery, too. All of the pieces are auctioned off to support its programs.

Diversity is a hallmark of the show in other ways as well.

Those participating include such well-known local artists as painter Susan Christian and digital collage artist Doyle Fanning along with people who might not have shown art before and one mysterious artist who mails in work under the pseudonym The Doomstress. (The Doomstress has submitted to several previous postcard shows, Barnes said, but the name does fit particularly well with the devilish focus this time around.)

The show also features works in a wide range of media, including pencil, charcoal, ink, photography, printmaking, textiles, metal and stained glass.

“It’s always exciting to see the ways in which donors have manipulated their chosen media,” Barnes said.

Fine Art Postcard Exhibition

• What: “Devil’s in the Details,” South Puget Sound Community College’s 11th annual postcard show, showcases the work of both well-known artists and novices. All of the works will be offered in an online auction.
• When: Through Feb. 4, with receptions from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 7, and Friday, Feb. 4. The gallery is open from noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays.
• Where: The Leonor R. Fuller Gallery at Minnaert Center for the Arts at South Puget Sound Community College, 2011 Mottman Road SW, Olympia, and online.
• Admission: Free
• More information: 360-596-5527, sbarnes2@spscc.edu, https://spscc.edu/gallery
• Also: Proof of vaccination or a negative results of a COVID test (taken within 72 hours) is required to enter the gallery.