Chicago area artists Brandy Pudzis and Marcy Sperry exemplify the diversity of contemporary art, inviting viewers to engage not only in the aesthetic qualities of their pieces but also the dark and uncomfortable questions they raise.

Each of Brandy Pudzis’ works conveys an intimate and complex story that is emotionally, if not literally, observed. Isolation, sexuality and social interaction play prominent roles, as does blood, apples and decapitation.

Societal expectations and ideals, which create an imbalance of equality, are questioned and their effects on interaction observed.

Marcy Sperry juxtaposes the traditional decorative function of domestic needlework and alternate cultural meanings to create elaborate and stunning pieces of craft that, at the same time, raises vital questions about the world. Exploring themes such as body modifications, fetishes of body parts, and gender identification, Sperry invites viewers to reflect on the disparate consumer culture of America.

From Pudzis’ pop saccharine imagery to Sperry’s paradox of embellished pieces, their works represent how powerful of a tool art is. The artists and their pieces exemplify innovative energy that provides a vehicle to question and reconsider the world we live in.

Statement of Purpose

Dittmar Memorial Gallery, established at Norris University Center in 1972, is a student-operated gallery whose genuine concern is to expose, enlighten and challenge the Northwestern University community with the serious work of fine emerging female and minority artists in the local and surrounding areas. The staff at Dittmar is dedicated to fostering and developing an awareness of the changing attitudes and trends in the art world by bringing artists who work in the contemporary vein, as well as artists who offer an alternative perspective that hinges on the periphery of the art world. In essence, the goals of Dittmar Memorial Gallery coincide with the philosophy of providing well-deserved exposure to those who would not necessarily get exposure in the mainstream art world.

How to Submit

Dittmar Memorial Gallery welcomes submissions through a formal review process. Each May, the submissions committee meets to review submissions and select a season of artists for the following academic year. To submit, please send us examples of your work, an artist's statement and biography and a resume/CV. You may submit electronically by emailing dittmargallery@u.northwestern.edu or by mailing your package to:

Dittmar Memorial Gallery
Norris University Center
Northwestern University
1999 Campus Drive
Evanston, Illinois 60208