Elisha Spradlin, senior at University of the Cumberlands, stands beside one of his artworks in the J.M. Boswell Art Gallery.

WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. – University of the Cumberlands will present the opening reception for Elisha Spradlin’s senior art exhibit, “Chrysalisarcophagus,” from 3-5 p.m., Thursday, April 23, at the J.M. Boswell Art Gallery of the Andersen Building on campus.

Chrysalisarcophagus comes from a hybridization of two words, which create a dichotomous relationship that symbolizes the work and the artist's path through his college experience and beyond. Both words represent chambers; one is a center of change, growth and renewal, while the other is a center where renewal is hoped for but never comes.

The exhibition encompasses work completed over the past four years ranging from several two-dimensional pieces through sculptural pieces in various mediums. A new series of pieces attempt to blur the lines between 2-D and 3-D formats by exploring paintings wrapped around a soft sculpture form.

The main body of the collection concerns the use of various faith-based concepts to express the artist's perception of identity, personal growth, and labels, both acquired and self-imposed.

“I think that my inclusion of the collection of self-portraits within this exhibit comes from my concept of identity and growth. It shows the progression through my college career in its entirety,” said Spradlin.

Spradlin, a native of Monticello, Ky., was the 2007 recipient of the Bella Bender Lipps Art Award. His work has been published in the “Pensworth: A Journal of Student Writing and Art” and has participated in the Student Art Exhibitions numerous times in the past four years.

The exhibit is open for viewing from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 20 to May 2. Admission is free and open to the public.