An upcoming exhibition titled "Before I Wake" by Maggie Parks, a visual art studies student at Penn State Altoona, will showcase her artistic journey from April 24 to May 3. The event takes place in the Sheetz Gallery of the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts. A special reception is scheduled for Thursday, April 24, at 4 p.m., providing an opportunity for visitors to meet the artist. Both the reception and the exhibition are free and open to the public.

A Deep Dive into Maggie Parks' Artistic Vision

In the heart of Altoona, Pennsylvania, the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts prepares to unveil a captivating collection of works by Maggie Parks. This young artist, renowned for her bold use of color and innovative techniques, primarily works with oil, acrylics, and ceramics. Her creations delve into the intricate relationship between the natural world and the human mind, blending conceptual and abstract elements seamlessly.

Parks draws inspiration from universal emotions, exploring themes such as curiosity about the cosmos, the mysteries hidden beneath ocean waves, and the shared fears that haunt our dreams. Her art invites viewers to reflect on the unknown and the connections we all share as humans. Parks plans to graduate in December 2025 and has already made significant contributions to the local art scene, including participation in various group exhibitions and receiving the Fine Art Award in 2024.

The exhibition is accessible during the gallery's regular hours, which run from Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Through her work, Parks challenges us to embrace the beauty and complexity of both the external and internal worlds. Her dedication to exploring these themes offers a unique perspective on how art can serve as a bridge connecting diverse audiences. As a viewer, one cannot help but feel inspired by her ability to transform ordinary experiences into extraordinary visual narratives.