On view March 21 – April 20, 2011

The Richard F. Brush Gallery at St. Lawrence University is delighted to present an exhibition of Peter Nelson’s photography and video work, focusing on topics of sports, identity and relationships. Two-Point Perspective, a term usually designated for a traditional drawing technique, refers to the possibility that every situation can simultaneously be perceived from multiple viewpoints, and that those viewpoints often conflict with each other.

In his most recent series, Nelson turns the camera toward his new community in Canton, NY. Noon Ball is a collection of portraits of the men who play lunchtime basketball at St. Lawrence University. Nelson reflects on the duality of this activity, “The games are both heroic and pathetic, epic and banal. Though the players are competitive and aggressive, the individuals form a tightly-knit community.”

The exhibition also features four videos that further probe nuanced two-point perspectives. In Mr. and Mrs. Nelson, a video with an original operatic score, the artist’s parents share their individual perceptions of falling in love, overcoming personality struggles and negotiating compromises to make their marriage work.

An artist talk and reception will take place on Tuesday, March 29 at 7:00 pm. The public is invited to attend.

Peter Nelson is the Visiting Assistant Professor of Photography and Digital Media at St. Lawrence University. He holds a B.A. from St. Olaf College and an M.F.A. from the University of Washington. Nelson, originally from Minnesota, currently resides in Canton with his wife, Jane, and can be found playing noon ball every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

The Commissioner (Noon Ball series), 2011, archival inkjet, 60″ x 40″