Five decades after the late artist and educator Bob Mejer initiated an art exchange across the Midwest, a long-archived collection of miniature masterpieces is available for public viewing. Quincy University’s Gray Gallery is hosting the 1974 Middle Western Card Exhibition Aug. 28–Sept. 18. The opening reception is Friday, Aug. 28, from 4–5 p.m.
In 1974, Mejer mailed blank 3-by-6-inch cards to writers, poets and artists throughout Illinois, Indiana and Ohio with a simple prompt: transform the card in any way desired and return it. The resulting creations were compiled into a pocket-sized album designed to serve as a “miniature traveling exhibition,” capturing a vivid, unfiltered snapshot of regional creativity.
After sitting tucked away in archives for decades, these unique works are being unveiled to the public once again.
The exhibition also invites guests to step into the artistic process. Guests will receive their own blank cards to take home and design, keeping Mejer’s legacy of participatory art alive for a new generation.
The Gray Gallery is open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.–11 p.m.; Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 5–11 p.m. The gallery is closed on Saturdays. Gray Gallery is located in Brenner Library on QU’s main campus, 1800 College Ave.
For more information, contact Christine Damm, dean of fine arts and communication, at 217-228-5432, ext. 3159, or Lindsey Witt, interim director of Gray Gallery, at 217-228-5432, ext. 3803.
Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University is a small Catholic university emphasizing the sciences, liberal arts and the professions. Quincy University offers undergraduate, graduate and adult education programs integrating practical experience and Franciscan values. Faculty and advisors work with students to design customized success plans to help them graduate on time, find their passion and prepare them for life. QU is a member of NCAA Division II for intercollegiate athletics. For more information, please visit www.quincy.edu or contact the Office of Community Relations at (217) 228-5275 or [email protected]. Quincy University. Success by Design.