VACA Professor Jerry Holsopple’s exhibit, “Remnants of Hell, Traces of Hope” opened Friday evening at 4 p.m. in the Margaret M. Gehman Gallery in the University Commons. The exhibit showcased two major themes. The first was a few composite photos, along with some abstract art, depicting the “Remnants of Hell,” showing how destruction can be beautiful. Holsopple used photos that represent hell to make these unique pieces of art. The second major theme was “Traces of Hope.” For this work, Holsopple compiled photographs of people and places that gave him hope in the form of large rosary beads.

This type of art is called alternative processing. Alternative processing is art processed with chemicals in place of a digital printer. These chemicals are used to transfer photographs onto surface materials, instead of traditional paper. Because of these chemicals, the images are distorted and not as assertively pleasing to the eye.

The hope portrayed through the photographs was beautiful. However, the alternative processing makes a statement that hope is not always portrayed as beautiful, which clearly connects with Holsopple’s theme of “Traces of Hope.” Along with these two themes, Holsopple also created an engineered compilation of his work and equipment that he had obtained throughout his photography career. A unique feature in Holsopple’s gallery was being able to listen to songs, composed by him, for each piece of work. This compilation featured the televisions that he used to portray his old work.

Holsopple’s dedication was evident in the work he displayed in this gallery. The crowd was clearly breathtaken. Holsopple truly showed his passion for his work.

The artwork will remain on display through Feb. 15.