Thursday, December 17, 2026 | 5:30–6:30 PM
Second Street Gallery | Charlottesville, VA
Join us at Second Street Gallery for an engaging conversation between Charlottesville-based artist Clay Witt and SSG's Executive Director and Chief Curator, Kristen Chiacchia, in conjunction with Witt's solo exhibition, Shadows and Dust.
Exploring themes of mortality, memory, and the passage of time, Witt's work draws inspiration from early American mourning art and the enduring tradition of memento mori. Through a distinctive process of layering mineral-pigmented glazes, abrasion, and Japanese washi paper collage, he creates richly textured compositions that reflect the tensions between construction and destruction, fragility and permanence.
During this intimate conversation, Witt and Chiacchia will discuss the inspiration behind the exhibition, the artist's materials and techniques, and the ways in which history, symbolism, and personal experience inform his artistic practice. Attendees will have an opportunity to gain deeper insight into the work and ask questions.
This event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is encouraged.
Thursday, December 17, 2026 | 5:30–6:30 PM
Second Street Gallery | Charlottesville, VA
Join us at Second Street Gallery for an engaging conversation between Charlottesville-based artist Clay Witt and SSG's Executive Director and Chief Curator, Kristen Chiacchia, in conjunction with Witt's solo exhibition, Shadows and Dust.
Exploring themes of mortality, memory, and the passage of time, Witt's work draws inspiration from early American mourning art and the enduring tradition of memento mori. Through a distinctive process of layering mineral-pigmented glazes, abrasion, and Japanese washi paper collage, he creates richly textured compositions that reflect the tensions between construction and destruction, fragility and permanence.
During this intimate conversation, Witt and Chiacchia will discuss the inspiration behind the exhibition, the artist's materials and techniques, and the ways in which history, symbolism, and personal experience inform his artistic practice. Attendees will have an opportunity to gain deeper insight into the work and ask questions.
This event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is encouraged.
Please note: Photographs and video footage may be taken throughout this event. These will be used by Second Street Gallery for marketing and publicity, on our website and in social media or gallery email campaigns.
