COLLEGE PARK, MD--The University of Maryland's Union Gallery presents, AREA, an exhibition featuring three local artists exploring the use of surface in two-dimensional work. Area runs from May 25 to July 14, 2005 and includes 15 paintings, drawings and animations by Hedwige Jacobs, Kevin Kepple and Katie Krebs.

Katie Krebs' horizonless landscapes such as I miss you, Becky. use atmospheric qualities to move beyond the surface to create a space for reflection, while Kevin Kepple's Skin uses intricately constructed surfaces to recall memories just out of the viewer's reach. Staying grounded in the language of drawing, Hedwige Jacobs' work literally explores the surface of her "drawings" as in Drive Through, in which an animated car moves along the surface of the work.

"This exhibition is an opportunity to show the work of three strong local artists who are doing unconventional things with traditional fine arts media," said Jeff Rhodes, Area curator and Union Gallery coordinator. "All three artists play with our concepts of depth or space through their use of surface, creating an intimate area for the viewer engage with the work."

The Union Gallery is located on the first floor of the Stamp Student Union on the campus of the University of Maryland, College Park. Admission to the exhibition is free and open to the public. Hours are 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.