("The Excavation at 51" by Joshua Toritto)

Need some artistic inspiration? Join Rowan College at Burlington County from September 1 through October 29 for their new exhibit “Follies & Visual Syntax,” which features works by arts alumni Josh Toritto and Don Stephens. 

“The inspiration for these works came from a chance to not only try something different, but to explore another side of myself and my work,” Toritto said. “The name ‘Follies & Visual Syntax’ comes from a discussion between Don and I. It's about how we work, what happens when we work and about the visual language of mark making and edges.” 

Toritto, of Collingswood, was previously featured in a profile for the college’s “50 stories for 50 years,” a series celebrating RCBC’s 50th anniversary. When it comes to his artwork, he prefers not to limit himself. He uses a variety of mediums, including watercolor, gouache, oil, marker, ink and acrylic. For this particular series, he used charcoal, chalk and watercolor. He’s most proud of his piece "Requiem For A Rainy Day.” 

“In many ways, it was the start of the whole series,” Toritto said. “It's simple but has a life of its own.”

Stephens, an RCBC and Temple University Tyler School of the Arts alum, teaches art classes in New Jersey and Philadelphia and engages in community events to promote the arts. He recently completed a mural at the Kensington Community Food Co-op (KCFC). Stephens’ unique abilities allow him to create in several mediums of material manipulation from wet to dry, and he fosters a passion for charcoal drawing. His works have been described as expressive, informative and imaginative simply by maneuvering material and experiences to convey a certain moment in time and space.

The “Follies & Visual Syntax” exhibit will be shown at the college’s Mount Laurel Campus in Votta Hall. Featured works include "Conduit," "Metropolitan" and "The Excavation at 51." Visit rcbc.edu/events to learn more.