Ivan Fortushniak is the professor of painting and foundations at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and is also the juror for this year's Juried Student Art Show on Jan. 15 to Feb. 20, 2026. Cummings Art Gallery is open Monday-Friday from 2-6 p.m. The reception is on Jan. 16, 2026, from 4-6 p.m.
The political and moral motivations that trigger the cataclysmic events of war are the driving elements in Fortushniak's artwork, as close examination of history informs who we were and gives insight into our future.
Reproductions of figures from art historical paintings and extra-terrestrial folklore also find their way onto the surfaces while juxtaposing multiple moments in time and space.
Form is further explored through the layering of abstract mark-making of contrasting shapes and color. As a result, a blend of spatial realism and abstraction is produced on the surfaces, generating layers of overlapping and atmospheric depth.
Fortushniak has artworks in public and private collections, including the Spencer Art Museum, Dayton Art Institute, and Lincoln Financial Foundation Collection, as well as several group and solo exhibitions throughout the country and international group exhibitions in Paraguay and Cuba, with many accompanying lectures about his work.
This event is free and open to the public.