WSCC professor will discuss Dawson

October 9, 2012

VICTORY TWP. – Professor Sharon Bluhm, author of a new book, “Manierre Dawson: Inventions of the Mind” will deliver a presentation about the artist and his life on October 25, at 7 p.m., in West Shore Community College’s Center Stage Theater.

Bluhm, a professor of English at the college for over 20 years, became interested in Dawson when she moved into the Dawson family’s home, south of Ludington, in 1977.

In the book, Bluhm focuses on the story of Dawson’s life in Mason County where he produced many remarkable abstractions inspired by the area. The author will highlight the artist’s life illustrating her talk with images of his paintings and sculptures.

The book is a culmination of years of research and includes an historical overview, family photographs, examples of the artist’s work, and selections from the artist’s personal journals.

Dawson was a 55 year resident of Riverton Township, and is considered to be America’s pioneer of abstract art.  Recent scholarship has suggested he was the first artist in the world to paint in completely non-representational form.

Dawson’s 20th century modernism challenged his viewers’ preconceived ideas of art and, until recently, has been one of history’s most overlooked American artists.

The book will be available for purchase following the talk.

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