The University of Texas at Tyler has announced that renowned New Jersey-based artist Willie Cole is the inaugural guest speaker for the UT Tyler Department of Art and Art History Inaugural Art Lecture Series. Cole serves as curator/juror for UT Tyler’s 38th Annual International Exhibition, which is currently on display in the UT Tyler Meadows Gallery.

“Introducing the artwork and experience of an internationally renowned artist such as Willie Cole, through his service as a juror for the exhibition and this lecture, is an incredible opportunity for our students, the UT Tyler campus and greater East Texas community,” said Merrie Wright, UT Tyler professor and department chair. “The Department of Art and Art History is thrilled to have him serve as the inaugural speaker for the Art Lecture Series.”

The lecture will be 3:30 p.m. Friday, March 3, in the UT Tyler Ornelas Activity Center, located at 3402 Old Omen Road in Tyler.

He will also present a gallery talk at the exhibition’s closing reception at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 2, at the gallery, located in the UT Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center. Cole chose 35 pieces for this exhibition out of 500 entries from national and international artists.

“At the close of the exhibition, the Department of Art and Art History will choose several works to purchase to add to their permanent collection, which will be used for educational purposes and for display around the UT Tyler campus,” said UT Tyler gallery and media coordinator Michelle Taff.

UT Tyler Meadows Gallery hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and by special appointment.