College of the Ozarks is hosting a ceramics exhibition titled “Constructing Memory: Artifacts and Layers” by Dryden Wells in the Boger Art Gallery now through April 1.

College of the Ozarks is hosting the ceramics exhibition “Constructing Memory: Artifacts and Layers” in Boger Art Gallery, located on the first floor of the Jones Learning Center. The exhibit is open to the public now through April 1, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free and community members are encouraged to attend.

The exhibition features the work of Dryden Wells, a Missouri native with more than 20 years of experience in ceramics. Throughout his career, he has traveled extensively between the United States and China, pursuing artistic and teaching opportunities. He currently works at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas, as an assistant professor of art.

Guests will have the opportunity to view freestanding ceramic sculptures and wall pieces. Wells’ exhibit explores the formal elements and principles of design, including space, shape, volume, mass and color.

Wells leads a ceramics workshop for College of the Ozarks art students.

“Inspired by both the ideas and artifacts of collective memories and histories, I try to connect my romance of histories with process,” Wells said. “Simply stated, I strive to take what is important to me and abstract, play, and recreate my own formal artifacts and layers.”

Wells particularly valued his experience teaching weekly studio classes and foundational ceramics courses at the Shanghai Academy of Arts. In 2018, he joined the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts at Washington University as instructional technician of wood, metals and ceramics. His work reflects a dedication to craftsmanship, ingenuity and problem-solving.

Workshop and Lecture

Boger Gallery hosted Wells for a public workshop and lecture on Thursday, March 5. During the workshop, Wells demonstrated his artistic process using a combination of wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques in clay. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions about his work, inspirations, and professional experiences.

The exhibit features ceramic works such as “Red Stripes,” highlighting Wells’ exploration of form and color.

Senior studio art major Sarah Tucker attended the workshop.

“Mr. Wells really encourages getting to know the medium of clay. He pushes students to experiment with art. As an artist, it’s important to try new techniques and not limit yourself to what you already know,” Tucker said.

The lecture was held later that evening in the Gittinger Recital Hall. Wells presented a slideshow highlighting his journey as an artist, maker, and educator, including his international work and travels in China, which has significantly influenced his artistic style.

While visiting campus, Wells engaged with students in the College’s art department, sharing his work, process and artistic influences with several classes, including clay and senior studio courses.

Michael Ashley serves as associate professor of art at College of the Ozarks.

“As we work towards the fivefold mission for our students and the greater community, the Cultural Pillar is expressed in many ways in the art department,” Ashley said. “For instance, we learn from professional artists and study contemporary artwork. It’s important that students engage in top quality artistic experiences because creativity is vital to their growth.”

The College of the Ozarks Cultural Pillar is to cultivate an appreciation of the fine arts, an understanding of the world, and adherence to high personal standards.