Avatars: Relics from the Future

Currently residing in Pennsylvania, critically acclaimed sculptor Gary Spinosa was born in Memphis, Tennessee, but has deep ties to Cleveland and Northeast Ohio as a 1972 graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Art. In 1981, Spinosa won first place in sculpture in the Cleveland Museum of Art's prestigious May Show. Spinosa continued his education at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, where he earned his MFA in 1988. Returning to Northeast Ohio, Spinosa's Avatars: Relics from the Future is on view today through July 23 at the Canton Museum of Art. Spinosa's sculptures reinterpret human, animal and architectural forms frequently found in ancient idols and totemic ritual. Ranging in scale from towering grand constructions to small "stones" that fit in the palm of a hand, Spinosa's sculptures combine elements of many different faiths and cultures, resulting in relics that are both familiar and foreign. Admission is $8 for adults, and $6 for students and seniors. Military veterans with valid ID, children 12 and under, members and Blue Star Families are free. The museum is free on the first Friday of each month, as well as every Thursday. (Usmani)