"These antique images lend the work a superficially light and frivolous appearance, which is quickly dissolved by the symbolic meanings that the artist assigned them. In their new context, the engravings are combined to suggest the cruelty and exploitation that result when individuals and institutions use Social Darwinism to justify their means," said Evans. "The antique imagery, suggestive of outdated ideals, conveys my fears that our once 'progressive' society has begun to reverse its path. It is my intention to draw parallels between the get-rich-at-whatever-cost policies of the 21st century free-trade economy and the corrupt Robber Barron practices of the 19th century. Despite two centuries of social reform, we remain sadly rooted in a society that protects the privileged few at the expense of the masses."

Evans on "Mexico Montages"

"These mixed-media paintings are montages of drawings and photos I made while visiting Mexico," said Evans. "Initially, I tried to restrict the elements in each composition to a specific site or location. In other words, I tried to combine in one montage only the photos and drawings I made while visiting a single place. This approach proved too limiting since it prevented me from combining forms, patterns and colors in a way that would work best formally. I therefore decided to treat all my Mexico experience as a single source of montage material. This decision remains more true to the way I have processed this information in my mind. In truth, I cannot remember minute details, such as exactly where I was when I made each sketch, shot each photo, and had each experience. My memory of my time in Mexico is like a montage: a series of vaguely related impressions, memories, sights, smells, tastes and sounds."

About Evans

Originally from Houston, TX, Evans earned her Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art and Applied Design at the University of Houston - Clear Lake in 1990, and then enrolled in post-baccalaureate studies at the University of Houston - University Park. In 1996 she earned her Master of Arts in Drawing from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX. She earned her Master of Fine Arts in Painting from West Virginia University in 1999. She has exhibited and taught in Texas, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and North Carolina. She came to STC in 2003, where she currently teaches Art Appreciation, Art History, and Drawing and Design at the college's Weslaco Campus.

The exhibition will run through the end of October and can be viewed during regular college hours. For additional information on the exhibit or to inquire about exhibiting at STC's Starr Campus Art Gallery, please contact Richard Lubben at rdlubben@southtexascollege.edu

From Phyllis Evan's "Survival of the Fittest" series, "The Experiment" is a mixed media piece using encaustic and oil on digital inkjet print.

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