Every two years, the Cress Gallery of Art presents an exhibition of the visual research of the faculty of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga art department. The 2011 show features 12 artists who teach full-time and adjunct in the department's core foundations studio program and its four professional degree concentrations: painting and drawing, 3-D studio, graphic design and photography/media art.

The breadth and depth of the faculty and curriculum are reflected in the variety of this show to include contemporary subjects finely rendered in traditional media such as oil and acrylic, works that feature the use of innovative materials and the employment of 21st-century technologies and those that explore concept and theory. Thematic references range broadly from the environment, social concerns and issues to philosophy and current esthetics.

Additionally, this exhibition exposes the department's students to the actual work of their mentors -- prompting an opportunity for deeper and more meaningful dialogue. Matt Greenwell, head of the department, echoes this significance for both the faculty and student body.

"It's a reminder that sustained studio research and production remains an essential component to teaching in the studio arts," he said. "The faculty exhibit is a touchstone for both our student majors and for one another as faculty as we continue to explore the boundaries of contemporary studio discourse."

The show will continue through Oct. 2. An opening reception will be held Tuesday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Cress Gallery, in the Fine Arts Center at the corner of Vine and Palmetto streets, is open 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday, Sept. 10, the gallery will be open from 1 to 9 p.m. for the annual Gallery Hop. Call 304-9789.