Opening Reception Sept. 27
From expressive oil paintings and mixed media abstractions to leaded glass inspired by dogs and music, the 2025 Alumni Art Exhibition at The University of Olivet brings together three creative voices with decades of stories to tell. Opening Sept. 18 in the Kresge Foundation Art Gallery, the exhibit showcases the work of Frank Corl ’94, Michael Reynolds ’75, and Jim Moore ‘75—all returning to campus to share how their artistic journeys began at The University of Olivet. The exhibit runs through Oct. 16. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.
The public is invited to an opening reception during Homecoming Weekend, Sept. 27, 5:30-7:30 p.m., where visitors can meet the artists and experience their diverse interpretations of form, emotion, and storytelling.
Each artist brings a unique perspective and creative process to the exhibition, reflecting the depth and variety of artistic practice shaped by their time at The University of Olivet and beyond.
Frank Corl, a realist oil painter, presents works that explore the narrative and historical presence of everyday objects and rugged landscapes. Drawing inspiration from 18th- and 19th-century realism and contemporary academicism, Corl emphasizes traditional techniques and direct observation in his practice. Based in Rochester, Minnesota, Corl serves as Senior Medical Illustrator and Assistant Professor of Biomedical Communications at the Mayo Clinic.
“Painting is my daily discipline and a way to reclaim attention and bring order to chaos,” Corl explains. “I aim to create work that feels tangible and alive.”
Michael Reynolds takes a contrasting approach, showcasing abstract and non-objective works that experiment with form, texture and mixed media. Departing from strict geometric compositions, Reynolds now embraces curves, exposed wood and shaped or multi-panel formats. His recent work incorporates acrylics, graphite, collage and more to create visually dynamic pieces focused on design over representation.
“I’ve accepted my artistic limitations and leaned into what I see as my strength—composition,” Reynolds says. “The comparisons to master draftsmen are brutal, so I’ve chosen to forge my own path.”
Jim Moore brings a deeply personal and nature-inspired approach to the exhibition. A Detroit native and 1975 Olivet graduate, Moore earned his MFA in printmaking from Cranbrook Academy of Art. His career has spanned fine art printing, museum work and K-12 art education. His exhibited works include prints, paintings and leaded glass, drawing from nature, music and emotional expression—especially through animals and portraiture.
“Dogs, like people, express emotion. I try to convey that in my work,” Moore says. “My goal is to challenge viewers to see the world differently through my use of color, line, shape and texture.” His influences include Donald Rowe, Edward Hopper and Andrew Wyeth, and his work has been shown across southeastern Michigan.
The exhibit will remain open through Oct. 16, offering students, alumni and the community an inspiring look at the creative legacy of The University of Olivet’s fine arts program.
For more information, contact Gary Wertheimer, professor of art, at 269-749-7627 or GWertheimer@UOlivet.edu.