In the second half of the “home” series featured at the Western Illinois University Art Gallery, you are stepping into “The Twilight Zone,” literally, as artist Andrea Kastner grabs your hand and directs you through the wonders of awe with her “Walking Distance” exhibition (located on the second floor of the gallery).
Kastner, who lives blocks away from the childhood home of “Twilight Zone” creator Rod Serling, drew inspiration from the series' fifth episode, in which a disillusioned man unknowingly walks into his own past.
Through this 10-piece collection, Kastner suggests that every house contains hidden portals. What we see on a front porch pales in comparison to the mysteries encountered once we step inside.
Every home—with its unique blueprints, wall colors and floorboards—tells an intimate story. Kastner encourages viewers to look beyond the surface, where subtle messages about our lives are hidden in the architecture. Much like a house, our bodies are built with mystique curiosity. We are all constructed differently, housing stories that only we can tell. “Walking Distance” invites the community to ponder those internal narratives.
The exhibition will remain on display through Friday, March 27. The University Art Gallery, located at 1 University Circle, is open free to the public from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays.
