USAO Student Sculptor Selected For OVAC's Momentum
USAO sophomore art major Colin Monterroso has had two kinetic sculptures accepted into Momentum, an annual exhibition spotlighting Oklahoma artists ages 30 and younger.
The accepted works, titled Rat Race and No Exit, were developed during. Period of high-intensity studio work over the winter break. Both pieces utilize repetitive, cyclical movements to explore themes of modern Sisyphean frustration - a reference to the Greek myth of eternal fruitless labor.
No exit features a construction of wood and steel cables, while Rat Race repurposes a treadmill base to create a mindless, repetitive, mechanical loop. Monterroso, a minimalist and contemporary sculptor, described his creative process as a series of educational milestones.
“I treat my pieces as lessons more than anything else.” Monterroso said. Beyond his artistic pursuits, Monterroso serves as the Student Government Association’s sophomore representative, leads the Ultimate Frisbee Club as President, and works as a campus tour guide. His artistic and academic pursuits have not gone unnoticed.
“Colin exemplifies bravery.” Quoted Jordan Vinyard, Professor of Art and Director of Art Wrecker Studio and Gallery. “He pushes the boundaries of his work every day and practically lives in the studio. I’m incredibly proud to be his teacher and watch him take what we explore in the classroom out into the real world in such a profound way.
Getting to be part of the support team, a fan, and even a co-conspirator when students are making bold, meaningful work is one of the most exciting things I get to do as a teacher.”
Momentum is hosted by the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC). The exhibition is designed to support early-career artists by providing them with the opportunity to display new work in a professional environment and receive critical feedback from nationally recognized curators, while gaining the experience necessary to navigate the professional art world. Momentum’s goal is to introduce the public to the next generation of Oklahoma’s creative talent.
You can attend Momentum and support Monterroso at The Yale Theater, 227 Southwest 25th Street, March 27th and March 28th from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are on sale on the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition’s website for $15.
About USAO:
The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts college. Located in Chickasha, USAO is a distinctive institution offering a challenging interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. With a focus on broad-based education and civic responsibility, USAO prepares students to become well-rounded, adaptable leaders ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.
Contact: Hannah Thompson | 405-574-1362