JustArts exhibit showcases works of faculty and staff

Nearly 100 works by 30 members of the community are on view in Dreitzer Galley through Nov. 22

You may recognize the name of Professor Martin Levin from his seminar on political leadership, but did you know that he also creates large, bold paintings with irreverent titles like “Into Afghanistan with the General"?

The Schuster Institute for Investigative Journalism’s assistant managing editor, Claire Pavlik Purgus, also paints, in exquisite detail that reveals the depth of her commitment to social and political reform.

Kathryn Howell, between running four interdepartmental programs, teaching fitness at the YMCA, and singing in the duo Roberto and Kathryn, explores boundaries and freedoms through photography.

Works by these and other Brandeisians -- 30 members of the community who submitted nearly 100 pieces -- are  included in JustArts,, on view Nov. 16 - 22 in the Dreitzer Gallery in Spingold Theater Center.

“The show is fascinating,” says Ingrid Schorr of the Office of the Arts, chair of the exhibition committee. “Look what these people are thinking about, and how they express it.  You see their dreams of distant seas, a curiosity about people and places, spirituality and a desire for peace.  You see glimpses of their family and friends and their work life.”

For some participants, bringing their art to the community was a call to action.

“It’s pushed me back into my studio to start new work and to reconsider my priorities—to remember how important painting is to how I define myself and to rededicate myself to finding a better balance between my Monday-through-Friday day work and my life work,” says Ellen Rounceville, academic administrator for the Department of Romance Studies and the Comparative Literature Program.

Viewing hours for the exhibition are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.