BENJAMIN HUNT OPERATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Ben Hunt – Operating Under the Influence, represents a chance to view his astounding work. A few years ago, an artist colleague of mine, Mark Emerson, sent me some images of Ben Hunt’s work and thought I might enjoy seeing them, he was right. I marveled at how well the work was constructed, intrigued at how he was using casting and really enjoyed the narrative of the work.

Hunt was a transplant to the Sacramento area. His move gave him a new place to look for inspiration and he found it not only in nature, but also in agricultural and local industry. This connection between nature and industry is prevalent and easily witnessed throughout his work. This exhibition combines those elements with Hunt’s journey into his own past. This leads the viewer on a wonderful journey of discovery.

I was not the only one to witness the journey into Hunt’s artwork. My colleague, Mirabel Wigon, had also seen his work and recommended that we develop an exhibition of Hunt’s work here at the University Art Gallery. The UAG helps to support our faculty’s teaching and it is through faculty recommendations that many exhibitions come to our galleries. Many thanks to Mirabel for recommending such a talented artist.

I would also like to thank the many colleagues that have been instrumental in presenting this exhibition. Ben Hunt for the chance of exhibiting work, Kelly Linder for the wonderful catalog essay, Brad Peatross of the School of the Arts, California State University, Stanislaus for the catalog design and Parks Printing for the printing this catalog.

I would also like to extend many thanks to the Instructionally Related Activates Program of California State University, Stanislaus, as well as anonymous donors for the funding of the exhibition and catalogue. Their support is greatly appreciated.

Dean De Cocker, Director, University Art Gallery California State University, Stanislaus