Native American Artist's Work Melds Ancient Culture, Modern World

Published 09.11.2013

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The Gallery at Penn College

Artist Christopher OlszewskiA compelling piece connects words –  "Death," "Violence," "Power," "Fear" and "Conflict" – to images of the artist and a buffalo coin.Treats for the eye and palate greet guests to The Gallery at Penn College. Seniors in residential construction technology and management, Keith F. Fischer, right, and Matthew C. Wirth, analyze artwork for their Literature of the American Indian class. A sizable gathering, impressive enough to merit mention by the artist, attends Tuesday's opening.A Tuesday reception and artist's remarks opened “No Place for the Weak,” an exhibit by Christopher Olszewski that runs through Oct. 6 in The Gallery at Penn College. A crowd of faculty – as well as several entire classes of students – were on hand to hear Olszewski, whose work colorfully and intriguingly explores the way ancient Native American heritage is entwined in contemporary culture. A member of the Chippewa nation who teaches at Savannah College of Art and Design, the artist discussed retracing the Trail of Tears in a beat-up Jeep Cherokee. Hours for the exhibit are 1-4 p.m. Sundays, 2-7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. The gallery, on the third floor of Madigan Library, is closed Mondays and Saturdays.