From Here to the Sun, Visual Arts Gallery, 2024

The University of Illinois Springfield Visual Arts Gallery is pleased to present “From Here to the Sun,” a mixed-media exhibition by Champaign-based artist Lee Hunter. “From Here to the Sun” will open Monday, Aug. 26 and run through Thursday, Sept. 19. A reception for this exhibition will be held at the gallery from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 5. This event is free and open to the public.

This solo exhibition focuses on the legacy of Mithras, a deity worshipped in the mystery cults of the late Roman Empire. Mithras’ followers practiced in secret and many of their temples were later converted into early Christian churches, leaving much of their rituals shrouded in mystery.

Hunter’s works in this exhibition draw on the nature of Mithras, telling a story through ceramics, needlepoint and textiles. The ceramics reflect the timelessness of relics while the needlepoint and textiles offer a tactile connection to the past. “From Here to the Sun” prompts viewers to explore the intersections of history, myth and art. It pays tribute to the enduring mystery of Mithras and highlights Hunter’s interest in materials.

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency. The UIS Visual Arts Gallery is centrally located on the UIS campus in the Health and Science Building, room 201 (HSB 201). Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. For more information and future exhibitions, visit the UIS Visual Arts Gallery website.

Show documentation here.