Lombard artist to display work at Park Art Center

"Innuendo," a display with the paintings of Lombard artist Jason Shuckhart, opens with a reception next week in Villa Park and continues through Nov. 7.

The reception is set for 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7, at the Park Art Center, 9 E. Park Blvd. Regular gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free.

Shuckhart's work is a mix of dark, moody images with splashes of color intended to draw the eye into the subject.

The work reveals innocence and vulnerability as he manipulates imagery with mixed media, creating multiple layers to his satisfaction. The depth and texture reflected in Shuckhart's artistic creations display a unique personality and provide a glimpse into an extraordinary life, said Wendee Goles, exhibit coordinator.

"Jason's dynamic and provocative works push social and personal confines by bravely engaging and exposing topics such as sexuality, desirability and persuasion. He offers brilliance in abundance with subtle visual language that demands attention. We are extremely excited for his first solo show," Goles said.

Originally from Kenosha, Wisconsin, Shuckhart knew from an early age that art would provide him an opportunity to experience life outside of a small town. His work reveals an understanding and sensitivity to line, depth and texture that he absorbed from his interior design coursework at Marquette University.

"Life is a series of experiences which influence our overall outlook, adding depth, texture, dimension, even color, to an otherwise passive existence.

"Our personal and professional life, a cup of coffee with a friend, a dingy pub in Brussels, a leisurely walk through the streets of Paris or Prague, an orange door to a 16th century row house in Brüge, a moment we remember from our childhood, people who come in and out of our lives, a long-term intimate relationship: The innuendoes of our lives influence us more than we know and shape our being," Shuckhart said.

For more information about Park Art Center, visit www.parkartcenter.org.