SMAC Art Center hosts ‘I Am Not A Bug’

The Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC) will host a solo exhibit of the work of Artist-In-Residence, Audra Welch, entitled “I Am Not A Bug.” The show will run through August 30 at the SMAC Art Center, 7 Downing Street, in historic Hollister.

This exhibit is a collection of acrylic paintings that use insect imagery as a lens to contemplate life, death and the fleeting nature of existence. Each piece asks the viewer to “reflect on how they’re spending their short time here — with the unsettling realization that I, or we, are the bugs,” says Welch about her work.

Colorful and lively, in bright pinks and orange hues, the artworks carry a darker meaning to be interpreted by the viewer.

Each month during their exhibits, SMAC highlights one of the many local nonprofit organizations that serve the area. This month SMAC is drawing attention to Branson Humane Society whose mission is to aid in the alleviation of distress and suffering of animals, and promote their humane treatment through protection, placement and public education. Branson Humane Society operates an adoption center and two thrift stores.

Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit local center of creativity, art education, innovation and community partnership, strives to improve the quality of life in southern Missouri by connecting individuals with the arts, for the benefit of all.