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"Mr. JOT" exhibit to open at Bing-Davis Gallery

Fayette, IA (01/06/2023) — Art enthusiasts are invited to "Mr. JOT" at the Bing-Davis Memorial Gallery at Upper Iowa University's (UIU) Fayette Campus on Monday, January 9 at 3:30p.m., which will open with an artist talk and reception. The featured exhibit is composed of works created by South Dakota artist Tom Bates. The works will show through Friday, February 10.

"As a professional graphic designer, having a strict and rigid creative process allows me to push boundaries and produce work that is different from the last," said Bates. "While it can be messy and uncomfortable, being in command and out of control is what makes the process of making an art form, well, art.

"Mr. JOT represents and celebrates both the process of sketching and collecting information to form a work of art and the formalities that come with being a professional in your given field," the artist continued. "The show is built to guide the viewer through an abstracted representation of the creative process."

Graphic Designer for the branding agency Fresh Produce, Bates received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design at South Dakota State University. Following graduation, he was invited to participate in the International Integrated Design Camp in Seoul, South Korea, hosted by the Korea Institute of Design Promotion (KIDP). Bates is also a member of the American Institute of Graphic Arts, has won gold, silver, and best of show awards for the American Advertising Federation, and was one of six contestants for the Command X competition during the virtual 2020 National AIGA Conference.

Bing-Davis Memorial Gallery is located in Edgar Fine Arts Hall at UIU's Fayette Campus. The gallery is open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Hours are subject to change.

About Upper Iowa University Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, nonprofit university providing undergraduate and graduate degree programs to about 4,500 students-nationally and internationally-at its Fayette, Iowa, Campus and over 20 U.S. locations. Upper Iowa University is a recognized innovator in offering accredited, quality programs through flexible, multiple delivery systems, including online and self-paced degree programs. With a focus on developing leaders and lifelong learners, UIU provides dual enrollment programs for high school students as well as continuing education and professional development opportunities for learners of any age. For more information, visit www.uiu.edu.

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“Mostly Everything So Far” by artist Tom Bates. Bates’ exhibit titled “Mr. JOT” will open Monday, January 9 at the Bing-Davis Memorial Gallery at Upper Iowa University’s Fayette Campus and show through Friday, February 10.

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