Ryan Stander
 

Ryan Stander

"Hints, Allegations, and Things Left Unsaid"

Sept. 7 - Oct. 22, 2021

Exhibition statement: 

My current work explores the reciprocal relationship between humanity and a world of physical objects and places.  In particular, I am interested in the cultural frameworks, including beliefs, biases, and assumptions that guide human interactions with the material world. 

Through different series, materials and methods, the work attempts to explore and embody these cultural hermeneutics through the use of text and image.

Much of my work is photographic in nature; combining elements of my own photographs, found or purchased vernacular photos, or simply appropriated imagery that engages and challenges the viewers own preconceived, yet often unarticulated, assumptions about places and things. 


Ryan Stander
 
About the artist:
Originally from the farmlands of northwest Iowa, I am a transplant to central North Dakota. I've alternated my education between art and theology [MFA from the University of North Dakota, MA in Theology from Sioux Falls Seminary (SD), and a BA in Art from Northwestern College (IA)].

As a printmaker and photographer, my work has been exhibited internationally in South Africa, China, Central and South America; nationally in New York, New Jersey, and Texas; and across the Upper-Midwest.

I am currently an Associate Professor of Art at Minot State University in Minot, ND, where I teach photography, a little printmaking and book arts. I also have the pleasure of directing the BFA program, and co-directing .
 
My interdisciplinary interests attempt to bring theology and the arts into a dynamic conversation. In particular, I enjoy exploring how the sacramental imagination, as formed through our liturgical participation, engages culture, place/space, and the visual arts. 
 
My artistic media, and preferred processes, are as varied as my interests.   My work ranges from Cyanotypes to Lithography which allows me to engage projects with a wide array of possibilities.