Northeastern Voice

New visual arts gallery to open with sculpture show

Gallery 360 is scheduled to open Oct. 9.

Northeastern will make its presence known in the arts community Oct. 9 with the opening of the university's new art gallery, Gallery 360. The gallery will complement the university’s “Northeastern Creates” initiative, which celebrates and promotes creative expression throughout the campus.

“Our new Gallery 360 will be a welcoming and engaging environment where both our internal and external community can connect with the arts,” said Philomena Mantella, senior vice president for enrollment and student life. “We look forward to showcasing an exciting array of local, regional, and national exhibitions that will inspire you.”

Gallery 360, the university’s new permanent visual arts space, opens with “Wild Ones,” an exhibit of fantasy vehicles created by Northeastern alumnus and found-object sculptor Michael Ulman. The gallery's first exhibit brings to roaring life an array of imaginative and mechanistic art pieces.
"It is an honor to have the distinct privilege of having my work featured in the inaugural show at Gallery 360," said Ulman. "It is a tremendous pleasure to return to my alma mater where I was encouraged as a student to explore my interest in the arts and honed many artistic skills."

The Roslindale, Mass., native and recent graduate of the School of Visual Arts and Design has been fascinated with machines since he was a young boy. His tactile metal work may indeed appear, at first glance, to be a slightly unconventional homage to the motorcycle or racecar—classic icons of speed, power, and masculinity.

Closer examination reveals just how unconventional his pieces truly are. Each work, which can take years to complete, is constructed of found objects that Ulman uncovers, cleans, polishes, and welds into place.

“Powerful motors are the central force behind my work," added Ulman. "My challenge is to create static sculptures that evoke the sound, movement, and raw power that inspire them.”

Building upon the momentum of “Northeastern Creates,” Gallery 360 has grown out of the vibrancy and diversity of the university’s commitment to the arts in academia and beyond.

Northeastern’s newest venue for the visual arts also furthers a key element of the university’s academic plan—to enrich intellectual life and creative expression for our students and the broader community.

The elegant, 1,000-square-foot space will display collections and unique works by Northeastern’s students, staff, and faculty, as well as exhibits by local and national artists of note. The gallery, located in the Ell Building, operates year-round.