“Fools Errand: Prints by Sage Perrott” is now on display at the Tipton Gallery until Jan. 31 with an artist reception on Dec. 6 from 6-8 p.m.
This exhibit is encompassed by the meaning of its title as it explores the groupings of imagined creatures whose inner workings are a bit of a mystery to the viewer.
“A ‘Fool’s Errand’ is a ‘foolish undertaking’ that is ‘nonsensical’ or ‘certain to fail,’ Perrott said. “They communicate occasionally. They’re often grumpy. They’re somewhat of a reflection of humanity, or a certain kind of humanity.”
The exhibit showcases three related, but distinct, bodies of work. The entire show is comprised of screen-prints, with the exception of two digitally woven tapestries and one risograph zine. The screen-printing process, which is a form of printmaking, is what Perrott describes as her specialty.
Within the exhibit, the prints are all paired with another print companion, as if they are talking to one another, while something else entirely is happening within the major symbol of communication.
“Communication is such a major factor in our lives, so why is it so difficult?” Perrott said. “And what elements come into play that interfere with effective communication? Sometimes it can feel like a fool’s errand to make art and to communicate.”
A native of Morgantown, West Virginia, Sage Perrott is an assistant professor in the Department of Art and Design at ETSU. Perrott has earned a BFA from West Virginia University and an MFA from Ohio University. Both degrees were focused in printmaking. She teaches printmaking classes and other related courses, such as comic book illustration and a special topics zine class. Perrott began her teaching career at ETSU last year.
Perrott shared that inspiration for this exhibit was found within comic book symbols.
“I am interested in the play between books, zines, printmaking and how all these relate to visual communication,” Perrott said.
“Fools Errand” and Perrott’s other works can be found at www.haypeep.com and on Instagram under the handle @haypeep.
The Tipton Gallery is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4-6 p.m. The “Fools Errand” exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Tipton Gallery Director Karlota Contreras-Koterbay at 423-483-3179 or contrera@etsu.edu.
