Contemporary Mosaics on display in SXU Gallery; Exhibit opens Oct. 31 at Saint Xavier University

Chicago (Oct. 19, 2007) – Saint Xavier University will showcase the mosaics of artist Chris Zonta in “Beyond the Surface: Contemporary Mosaics,” which opens Wednesday, Oct. 31, in the SXU Gallery at Saint Xavier University, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

The exhibit, which runs through Nov. 20, will display Zonta’s handcrafted mosaics. Incorporating materials such as glass, beads, rocks and other found objects, she compares the design process to the childhood emotion of wonder.

“Although the glimmer, glaze, rich bold colors and positive aura have been the message of my work in the past, my subject matter is reflecting more personal and spiritual issues, and expressing those ideas is as compelling as it is challenging,” Zonta said. “My art and life continue to merge in deeply gratifying ways.”

Zonta earned her bachelor’s in applied behavioral science/social work from George Williams College in Downers Grove. She teaches the process of mosaic making to children and adults throughout the Chicagoland area. She designed the Mosaic Art Program that teaches elementary school students about the history, materials, tools and techniques used while creating a permanent mosaic mural for their school environment.

An opening reception and lecture by Zonta will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Wed., Oct. 31, in the SXU Gallery in the Warde Academic Center. Both the lecture and exhibit are free and open to the public.

The exhibit is partially funded by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council. The SXU Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, please contact the Saint Xavier University art department at (773) 298-3081.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact Joe Moore
773-298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu