Dorris Rider Art Gallery featuring former Trenton resident

Dorris Rider Art Gallery
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A collection of works by a former Trenton resident will continue the 2017-2018 exhibition schedule in the Dorris Rider Art Gallery at North Central Missouri College in Trenton. “The Secret Project” by Cristin Stevenson is now open and will be on display through December 7.

The project began in November 2016, when Stevenson was inspired by the idea of creating artworks based on secrets of people who might be grappling with hidden issues. She posted a call for ideas on Facebook and immediately began to receive submissions. Ultimately messages came from various locations around the world.

“All of us have a secret inside us,” Stevenson said. “We do not tell these stories for many reasons. We sometimes forget that everyone has a story.”

The artworks are mixed media projects made from various re-purposed materials. The identities of those who shared their secrets remain anonymous, but their stories are often emotionally impactful.

“Many of the ‘Secret Keepers’ told me that finally being able to share their secret was liberating,” said Stevenson. “And people following the project were surprised they personally related to many of the secrets.”

“This is an incredibly powerful collection of art,” said Gallery Director Jim Norris. “So many of the stories are heartbreaking and thought-provoking, and the visuals are extremely well-executed. It’s an honor to share Cristin’s work in the gallery.”

It should be noted that many of the secrets in the display may be uncomfortable. Many allude to the topics of mental illness, abuse, and loss of faith. The exhibition may not be appropriate for young audiences, so viewer discretion is advised.

Stevenson attended North Central Missouri College, where she excelled in art classes. She currently teaches a variety of collaborative online art courses and offers tutorials on the Patreon website. She also does design work for Artistcellar, Canvas Corp Brands, and Donna Downey Artist Gang. Her work has been featured on various online sites, Mixed Up Magazine, and the St. Joseph News-Press.

The Secret Project was recently on display at the Glore Psychiatric Museum in St. Joseph. The entire series is now part of the museum’s permanent collection.

Stevenson is the daughter of Larry and Carla Chambers of Trenton.

There will be a reception for the artist on Saturday, October 28 from 5:00-7:00 pm in the gallery. The public is invited to attend.

For more information, please contact Jim Norris at 357-6345, or by email at [email protected].

Regular hours at the Rider Art Gallery are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, as well as selected weekend and evening hours by appointment.


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