The Hillstrom Museum of Art, located on the lower level of the Campus Center, often brings unique and interesting exhibitions to the Gustavus community.

Currently on exhibit in the Museum is Memories and Premonitions, a collection of works by German-­born American artist Karl Schrag. The exhibit will be on display in the Hillstrom through Jan. 29, 2016. The exhibit, like all events at the Museum, is free and open to the public.

“The Karl Schrag exhibit seemed a natural choice for us because the artist was represented in the Hillstrom Collection, and one of our goals is to draw attention to the collection through exhibits of works and exhibits that shed light on particular aspects of it,” Donald Myers, the Director of the Hillstrom Museum of Art said.

Memories and Premonitions is a traveling exhibit organized by the Syracuse University Art Galleries in Syracuse, New York. 

The exhibit is the first major examination of Schrag’s work since his death. Aside from the artwork found in the Hillstrom Collection, some pieces were also donated by Schrag’s children, Peter Schrag and Katherine Schrag Wangh. The exhibit is also accompanied by an illustrated catalogue produced by the Syracuse University Art Galleries.

“I’ve always been supportive of his work,” Peter Schrag said. “I’m pleased Syracuse made their show and I think that the idea that museums in smaller places have access to work by interesting artists is great.”

Even as a young man, Schrag was always an artist. Realizing his interest, he attended art school in Paris and pursued a career in art. Many of Schrag’s works are connected to abstract Expressionism.

“I think it’s a great that Syracuse University supports Karl’s work, thinks highly of it, and circulates it,” Peter Schrag said. “College kids are busy and yet they should have a chance to see things that are interesting.”

Although he was born in Germany and later immigrated to the United States, Schrag always considered himself a New Yorker and an American. Versatile in many fields of artwork, he enjoyed painting, printmaking, finger drawing, and other modes of creating art.

“This exhibition demonstrates the exuberance of Schrag’s artistic vision and the works in it, like any strong works of art, can speak very directly to viewers and offer enhancement to their lives,” Myers said. “It clearly shows what a fine artist he was.”

For more information about the Hillstrom Museum of Art and upcoming exhibits and events, visit the webpage at www.gustavus.edu/finearts/hillstrom.