Former chemist showcases exhibit in Fireplace Gallery

MHCC’s Fireplace Art Gallery is showcasing 15 pieces of art from Art Institute of Chicago graduate and former chemist, David Reager.

Reager’s solo exhibit, “Process and Substance,” will be on display until March 29.

Reager studied chemistry at Purdue University. He worked five years in research, then “I decided that it wasn’t for me so I took classes at the Art Institute in Chicago,” said Reager.

After graduating Reager moved to Los Angeles and has “been doing art ever since.” After moving from Los Angeles to Portland in 1990, Reager started showcasing his art in various galleries around Portland.

Reager incorporates his knowledge of chemistry into his art. “I use solutions to treat my background,” he said.

A second-year MHCC student Jan Angtaguibao observed Reager’s art and said, “Usually I see painting stuff, but I never seen anything like this before.”
Angtaguibao is from the Phillipines and said Reager’s art is different. “(In the Phillipines) I only saw painting and stuff,” he added. “(Reager’s color choice) matches the structure he has.”

Samantha Ordonez, first-year MHCC student, also observed Reager’s art and said, “What I really like about (the art pieces) is that they have a really clear focal point.” She added, “He put thought on the color choices.”

Reager said the colors in his art “make me happy. They’re more subtle.” He said he wants everyone to have their own perspective on how they view his art.
Reager said finishing his art “sometimes can come together real fast. Sometimes it takes me two or three weeks to finish a piece.”

His recent work uses “varying thicknesses of hydrocal [a type of plaster] (that) are broken, shaped and painted for an even greater relief.”

Reager enjoys making his art. “For me the experience of making art is in itself the motive,” he said.

MHCC’s Fireplace gallery will continue to showcase Reagers art until March 29th. Gallery hours are Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Fridays 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For more information about the Fireplace Gallery contact Pam Kuretich at [email protected] or call 503-491-7260.