The Online Reflector

The University of Indianapolis showcased a new exhibit Feb. 22 to March 26 featuring two local artists’ Melissa Parrot and Kyle Ragsdale’s recent works at the Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center Gallery.

Parrot’s work was a colorful array of florally inspired pieces that lined the walls of Christel DeHaan. Some of her featured works included a four-piece wall tile collection of a hibiscus, morning glory, plumeria and a yellow allamanda as well as clay sculptures that protruded from the wall resembling underwater plant life. All of Parrot’s work represented was vibrant and textured.

Parrot grew up in Indiana and received a bachelor of fine arts from Herron School of Art and Design at IUPUI and a master of fine arts from the University of Delaware. Using clay, Parrot’s favorite medium, she designs nature inspired artwork such as her “Wallflower” series.

“My biggest accomplishments as an artist are being able to create new work as a response to my environment and to share my passion with others,” Parrot said.

Although Parrot’s work was very energetic and bright, her pieces were randomly placed and didn’t compare to Ragsdale’s pieces that were hung side-by-side. The four-piece wall tile was probably the most appealing of Parrot’s works because of the intricate detail and interesting art themes. The ceramic underwater themed statues seemed odd and out of place in contrast to all of the other works in the room. The ceramics also resembled an amateur artist’s modeling clay creation.

Kyle Ragsdale grew up in Texas and New Mexico and received a bachelor of fine arts from Baylor University and a master of fine arts from Southern Methodist University and currently works as a full-time painter and a curator for the Harrison Center for the Arts in Indianapolis. His works are a collection of symbols due to viewers to interpret however they perceive. Ragsdale works mainly with oil paints for their flexibility and interchangeability.

According to Ragsdale’s Web site, www.kyleragsdale.com, he describes his work “Like moments in time, memories and dreams, the figures and images serve as starters for dialogue with the viewer.”

Ragsdale’s pieces illuminated and transformed Christel DeHaan into a completely different atmosphere. Most of his pieces included two figures that looked almost identical. Inspired by old Victorian costumes, many of the characters portrayed in his works wear a top hat or billowing dresses. “Heralding Spring,” a vibrant work featuring two graceful women on a canvas of bright flowers, engrossed and captivated the entire gallery. It was the focal point after walking in, and it was hard to take your eyes off the beautiful colors and detail. Other works titled “Butterfly Dress,” “Storm Gatherers” and “Momentous Occasion” were intriguing for viewers.

“‘Momentous Occasion’” was one of the last pieces I finished for the show. I love the color but I also love that the image is both decorative and abstract. It seems like a real scene but also becomes like a magical animation,” Ragsdale said.