Printmaker Russ Revock has been paying attention to Cleveland State University’s annual Student Art Show for most of its 39 years — first as a student in the early ’80s and now as a member of the school’s art faculty. “If you’re an experienced student-show viewer as I am, and if you go to the shows at other area schools, you’ll see that CSU’s always has a personality,” he says. “I think there’s less attention to traditional academic concerns here. Work tends to have more whimsy and a kind of sardonic look. I think it’s because we’ve got students from all different backgrounds — some who were stars of their high schools, some who have no art experience whatsoever. The diversity makes the show interesting.” Jurors for the CSU Student Art Show include gallerist William Rupnik and Kent-based painter Kelly Urquhart. It opens with a reception from 5-8 p.m. tonight and continues through May 8 at the CSU Art Gallery (2307 Chester Ave., 216.687.2103). Admission is free. — Michael Gill
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