How and Nosm, identical twin brothers whose graffiti-inspired art has gained international influence, bring their unique style to West Virginia University’s College of Creative Arts this week, delivering the Deem Distinguished Artist Lecture on Thursday, the day an exhibition of their work opens in the Mesaros Galleries.

The lecture will take place at 5 p.m. on Thursday (Jan. 22) in the Creative Art Center’s Bloch Learning and Performance Hall.

Born in Spain, German in heritage and currently residing in New York, the brothers frequently reference their personal history in their work, including their experiences living under a Spanish dictatorship and an investigation into their genetic bond.

Additionally, they produce prints and paintings on canvas, though aerosol can is dominant in all their works. The pair uses a signature palette of reds, whites and blacks in complex, detailed designs with geometric patterns and stylized characters engaged in admittedly dubious activities. They have become known across the world for redefining what constitutes graffiti and public art.

The speakers will be introduced by School of Art and Design alumnus Jacob Lewis, director of the Jacob Lewis Gallery in New York City, where the pair has recently exhibited their works and created new editions.

A reception will follow the lecture at 6 p.m., opening the exhibition of their works in the Paul Mesaros Galleries.

Also showing in the Gallery is Philadelphia sculptor Adelaide Paul. Paul, whose main inspiration is the relationship between humans and animals, will present a visiting artist lecture on Feb. 26 at 5 p.m.in Bloch Learning and Performance Hall, followed by a reception for her exhibition at 6 p.m. in the Galleries.

Both exhibitions will be on display through Feb. 26.

Managed and programmed by Curator Robert Bridges and the WVU School of Art and Design, 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. The Mesaros Galleries and the WVU School of Art and Design also host contemporary artists of important or growing reputation who work in all media in the Lecture Series.

All Mesaros Galleries events, including art lectures, exhibitions and receptions are free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday, from noon to 9:30 p.m.

The annual Deem Distinguished Visiting Art Lecture is made possible through a donation to the WVU College of Creative Arts from Alison and Patrick Deem. For more information about the lecture, contact the College at 304-293-4359.

-WVU-

cl/01/20/15

CONTACT: Charlene Lattea, College of Creative Arts
304.293.4359, Charlene.Lattea@mail.wvu.edu

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.