‘Cool Collages’ on display

“Cats!” photo collage, 2001

The intensely beautiful colors of the fall of 1987 inspired (then) newcomer Vicky Culver to capture her New Jersey surroundings with her camera.

Subsequently, she began hand-crafting her award-winning photo collages based on the dynamic geometric patterns of the Amish quilt using the textures of foliage, flowers, farmland and even food.

Since then, Culver’s subject matter has diversified greatly, resulting in a body of work which appeals to viewers of all ages.

Fifty-six of “Vicky Culver’s Cool Collages” are currently on display at the M. Christina Geis Gallery at Georgian Court University, 900 Lakewood Ave., Lakewood, through Dec. 20.

Born in Liverpool, England, Culver was awarded a bachelor of science degree in graphic design, photography and communications from Manchester Metropolitan University in 1969. She designed publicity material and books for Longman, an educational publisher, until moving to Canada in 1974.

Continuing to work as a designer for New Designs, various departments of the Canadian government, and Banfield Advertising, she then established her own freelance partnership in Ottawa in 1982.

“Flower Bridge” photo collage, 2002

A resident of New Jersey since 1987, Culver has participated in hundreds of group shows since 1996. She is active as an exhibiting member of the Guild of Creative Art, the Art Alliance of Monmouth County, the Art Society of Monmouth County, the Freehold Art Society, the Monmouth Festival of the Arts, Princeton Art Group, The Shore Institute of the Contemporary Arts, and the Visual Arts League.

She is also a member of the Monmouth County Arts Council and has won numerous awards, both local and national. Her works have been displayed in solo shows throughout central New Jersey.

Culver is currently working part time as director of the Guild of Creative Art, exhibiting widely and demonstrating her technique. In addition, she has been curating, hanging and judging shows.

She was recently nominated and accepted for inclusion in “Who’s Who in American Art.”

“I strive to handcraft works that command attention, draw the viewer in, stirring imagination as well as emotion – unique works that move beyond the photo, becoming more than the sum of their parts,” Culver said. “My hope is always to provide resplendent imagery which encourages my audience to see the world as I do, sharing my compassion, love of nature and my attention to infinite detail.”

The Georgian Court exhibit is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. For details, call (732) 987-2388.