Summer Workshop Lecture Series // Chris Alveshere and Sharon Norwood

Chris Alveshere is an artist, educator, and co-owner of Workroom Montana, a community arts space in Missoula, MT. He currently teaches art education and ceramics at the University of Montana, in addition to adult and youth community education classes. Originally from North Dakota, Chris received undergraduate degrees in ceramics and art education from Minnesota State University in Moorhead, MN and his MFA in ceramics from Alfred University.

Sharon Norwood is a conceptual artist whose work spans several media to include painting and ceramic. Norwood received a BFA in Painting from the University of South Florida and an MFA in studio Art from Florida State University. Norwood’s work investigates the ways in which race, gender, and cultural identity shape our perceptions of ourselves and other people. In her work the curly line becomes a metaphor for the “black body”, within this conceptual understanding, the curly line when paired with historical objects, creates spaces for conversations relevant to black life. Her research is a continuous exploration of the narratives that surround blackness and femininity, challenging societal norms and representation.

As an active educator and lecturer, Sharon has shared her insights and showcased her work at numerous institutions, including OCAD University, Kent State University, Emily Carr University, Telfair Museums, Edna Manley College, and the Gardiner Museum. Her lectures typically address themes of identity, representation, and the interplay between art and cultural discourse. She has earned several accolades for her work, including support from the Canada Council for the Arts, a nomination for the Joan Mitchell Foundation "Painters & Sculptors" Grants, and various grants and fellowships. Her work is featured in art publications, academic textbooks, and is part of public collections at notable institutions such as the Gardiner Museum, Washington & Lee University Museums, The National Museum for Women in the Arts, and the TD Bank Collection.