BRISTOL, TN – Tammy Mercure, assistant professor of photography at King College, has been named to Oxford American Magazine's 100 under 100: The New Superstars of Southern Art. The national magazine is dedicated to featuring the very best in Southern writing while documenting the complexity and vitality of the American South. The magazine is also noted for its impressive art and photography.
"Tammy Mercure is rising," said Diana Stoll, senior editor of Aperture Magazine. "Though her subjects may seem familiar - from NASCAR races to amusement parks to hunters and their coonhounds - Mercure's photographs balance absurdity and humanity, kitsch and compassion. She is working to bring us a new, and much needed, take on America's fascinating and endless visual vernacular."
Originally from Iowa, Mercure has exhibited internationally, including solo shows at Chicago Cultural Center in Illinois, the Sioux City Art Center in Iowa, and a group show at Catherine Edelman Gallery in Chicago. She has received numerous awards and grants, including a Polaroid Art Support Grant and several Community Arts Assistance Program (CAAP) grants from the City of Chicago. Mercure is also a member and founder of the Appalachian Photographers Project.
"I am so excited to be part of this talented and hard working group," said Mercure. "I have had a great time viewing the other artists' work on this list and have found many amazing painters, artists, and photographers. I love seeing similar themes and how each individual deals with them visually. The southeast is a hub of talent, from writing to visual arts to music. I love being here."
Mercures' photography reflects a love of the area's history. She is currently working on an ongoing project titled "Cavaliers," which will include photographs of men who are passionate about a hobby or leisure activity. The subjects have ranged from Amtgard role players performing Medieval-based combat scenarios in the park to gun enthusiasts gathered for the world's largest civilian-owned weapons festival.
Mercure received her Bachelor of Arts in photography from Columbia College Chicago and her Master of Fine Arts in photography from East Tennessee State University.
For more information on the 100 under 100: New Superstars of Southern Art, visit http://oxfordamerican.org/articles/2012/feb/29/100-under-100/#mercure.
