P.J.’s grad creates art exhibit on incarceration in America

Metro Wire Staff

A Stevens Point native’s artwork on the impact of incarceration in America is the focus of a new exhibit at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Edna Carlsten Art Gallery.

“Pinned Down: The Locking up of America,” will open Monday, March 25, and run through Sunday, April 14.

The free, public exhibit highlights the number of prison facilities in America, along with the effect incarceration has on juveniles who enter the system. It features the work of artist/designer Wes Janz, who grew up on a farm near Junction City.

Several free, public events will also be held. On Monday, March 25, Janz will give a lecture from 9:30-10:45 a.m. in the Communication Arts Center Room 333, and an opening reception will be held at the gallery from 4-6 p.m. On Tuesday, March 26, two walk-through talks with Janz will be offered at the gallery, from 2-3:15 p.m. and 3:30-4:45 p.m.

Trained as an architect, Janz has explored the economic and social conditions that impact culture around the world, mainly through stories of people and their relationship to the environment. He has lectured on six continents and was the inaugural winner of the Curry Stone Design Prize, which recognizes breakthrough international projects that engage communities, raise awareness and empower individuals.

Janz was among the last graduates of P.J. Jacobs Senior High School. He taught architecture at Ball State University for 22 years, retiring in 2017. He and his wife reside in Indianapolis, Ind.

The Edna Carlsten Art Gallery, located in the Noel Fine Arts Center, 1800 Portage St., Stevens Point, is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday, 7-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

For more information, call 715-346-4797 or go to www.uwsp.edu/art-design/Pages/Exhibitions/carlsten.aspx.