September 8–October 8, 2023

Simon Paterson Ph.D.
ULTRAVIOLET, A Life of Purpose

"ULTRAVIOLET, A Life of Purpose" is a retrospective exhibition by Simone Paterson, Ph.D., on display in Smoyer Gallery, alongside new works that examine light frequencies in Olin Gallery. Over the past 30 years of practice-led research, Simone's art has undergone significant transformations - from photographic self-portraits in Australia to abstracted landscapes and intricate machine embroideries in America. Through her exploration of the intersection between technology and the human condition, Simone seeks to find meaning in the world around us and from within ourselves, promoting self-awareness and inner peace. Her belief in the power of art to enhance our well-being is showcased throughout the exhibition, which celebrates her personal and artistic journey and her unwavering commitment to purposeful creation.

Artist Biography

Born and educated in Australia and living in the American South, Dr. Simone Paterson is an artist who works at the crossroads of creative technologies and crafts. Her solo exhibitions with diverse applications of technology and textiles have included showings at A.I.R. Gallery, Brooklyn, NY, U.S.A., The Taubman Museum of Art, Virginia U.S.A., and a residency at Art Space, Sydney, Australia. She has delivered presentations at the College Art Association in New York and ISEA, South Africa.

Simone received a Ph.D. from The University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia, and an M.F.A. from Sydney College of the Arts, Sydney University, New South Wales, Australia. She is a retired Associate Professor and once Chair of Undergraduate Studies in Creative Technologies and Studio at the School of Visual Arts at Virginia Tech.

“ULTRAVIOLET, A Life of Purpose” is made possible with support from the Copenhaver Scholar in Residence Grant of Roanoke College, and the Joanne Leonhardt Cassullo Center for Art.