New exhibits now open at the Mesaros Galleries in the Creative Arts Center include new paintings by Pittsburgh artist and WVU alumnus Scott Turri, along with sculpture by Kevin Lyles, who teaches at the University of Rio Grande in Ohio. Both exhibits will be open through Oct. 2.

Turris exhibition, titledSuburban Dreams,is in the Laura Mesaros Gallery. He will present a visiting artist lecture Thursday, Oct. 2, at 5 p.m. in the Bloch Learning and Recital Hall, formerly called the Choral Recital Hall (Room 200A). A reception will follow at 6 p.m. the galleries.

Turri is known as an emblematic abstractionist with a fondness for grids, color and optical pageantry. Rhythm, pattern, and sequence are at the heart of his oil paintings. He received a master of fine arts degree in painting from the WVU Division of Art in 1996, and a bachelors degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He also served as adjunct professor in the Division of Art during the 1990s.

Lylesexhibition of recent works is on view in the Paul Mesaros Gallery. He holds a bachelor of fine arts degree from Abilene Christian University and a master of fine arts degree from Bradley University. In addition to teaching in the graduate program at the University of Rio Grande, he teaches undergraduate courses in sculpture, ceramics, drawing and art history. He also has been employed in architectural and sculptural restoration. Lyles actively exhibits his work in shows across the nation.

Managed and programmed by Curator, Robert Bridges and the WVU Division of Art, the Mesaros Galleries organize a diverse and exciting schedule of exhibitions throughout the year. The galleries are committed to showing experimental work that is innovative both in terms of media and content. Occasionally, historical or thematic exhibitions are prepared from the resources of the University Art Collection. The Mesaros Galleries also host contemporary artists of important or growing reputation who work in all media in the Visiting Artist program. All the gallery events and receptions are free and open to the public.

The Mesaros Galleries are open Monday through Saturday from Noon to 9 p.m. They are closed Sundays and on University holidays. Special viewing times may be arranged upon request.

For more information, contact Robert Bridges, curator, at (304) 293-2140 ext. 3210.