Two contemporary artists-Marta Deskur and Robert Rumas-will host their work at Gallery 400 at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Deskur and Rumas' work reveals the radical changes in Polish social life since the collapse of communism. Deskur's work includes selections from the "Family" series in large-scale light boxes and videos, while Rumas' "Urban Manoeuvres" are street signs depicting unexpected pictograms.

"Deskur's work portrays an invented and ever-growing family, illuminating the evolving definition of and relations within contemporary family life," said Lorelei Stewart, visiting director of Gallery 400. "Rumas' sign project proves one aspect of the structuring of everyday life, as well as the limitations of current public discourse, revealing taboo subjects like rape or child molestation, or everyday activity, like love or rest, through the authoritative voice of basic public signage." The artists' visit is sponsored in cooperation with "In Between: Polish Art, 1945 to 2000."

Opening Reception
Thursday, Jan. 18
4 - 7 p.m.

UIC Gallery 400
400 S. Peoria St.

Both artists are part of "In Between: Art from Poland 1945 to 2000"-the first major survey of Polish art in the United States, organized by the Chicago Cultural Center. In Between is designed to introduce the American audience to the significant artists and aesthetic issues that have shaped the contemporary art of Poland.

"In Between has traced historical movements of significant art from the postwar period to today," said Stewart. "We are honored to be part of a collaboration with the Chicago Cultural Center, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Renaissance Society and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago."

The exhibit runs from Jan. 10 through Feb. 3, 2001. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday, noon - 5 p.m. Direct exhibit questions to Stewart at Gallery 400, (312) 996-6114.