John Abbott, at left, is pictured with acclaimed artist Cary Smith at Pierogi art gallery.(Courtesy Photo)

Silver City, NM - John Abbott has been crisscrossing the country, sizing up wall space and sharing his perspective through text-based painting, in two new solo exhibitions New York and Chicago.

GǣI am interested in the relationships between reading and looking,Gǥ explained Abbott, assistant professor of painting and drawing at Western New Mexico University.

The exhibits recently opened in two American cities known for art, architecture and powerful messages. Abbott jumped at the opportunity to showcase his work, which he believes can be inspirational to students attending WNMU.

GǣI would like WNMU students to be empowered so that they can go on from here and accomplish whatever they want,Gǥ said Abbott. GǣIt is my aim to bring the excitement and openness of my studio practice into the classroom.Gǥ

Abbott earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from WNMU in 2002. He returned to Silver City as a professor, more than a decade after graduating. Abbott earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin and taught art at several universities before choosing to work for his alma mater.

GǣMy artwork is diaristic in nature,Gǥ said Abbott. GǣThe content of the work is pulled from my experiences.Gǥ

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