Artist bringing his work to South

By Andrea Cornett/reporter

Labors of Hercules, a series of graphite drawings on paper by Ed Smith, are on display in the South Campus Carillon Gallery.  Photo by Sarah McVean/The Collegian
Labors of Hercules, a series of graphite drawings on paper by Ed Smith, are on display in the South Campus Carillon Gallery. Photo by Sarah McVean/The Collegian

Drawings of bronze sculptures by a world-renowned artist grace the walls of the Carillon Gallery on South Campus through tomorrow at 3 p.m.

The Labors of Hercules by Ed Smith presents a 40-piece collection of drawings.

“ All drawings on display were created after the sculptures were formed,” Smith said. “Unlike other sculpture artists, I sculpt then draw after the piece is complete. The drawings tell the story of sculpture.”

The series consists of graphite portraits of the 12 labors of Hercules. Although the complete drawing series contains 90 pieces, the 40 chosen for this exhibition impart a dramatic and detailed preview of the collection.

Smith said the Greek myth of Hercules’ labors was a favorite theme for ancient and Renaissance artists because of the richness of the subject.

His sculptures and drawings possess the influence of the Greek idea of pathos, experiencing the virtuous struggle and suffering that would lead to fame and, in Hercules’ case, immortality.

Smith, a Guggenheim Fellow in sculpture and drawing, teaches art at Marist College in New York.

His drawings, prints and bronze sculptures are featured in both private and public collections within the United States and abroad.

The Labors of Hercules series will be available for viewing noon-3 p.m. The gallery is located inside the Joe B. Rushing Center for the Performing Arts.