As Atlanta-based artist Michi Meko garnered more and more attention from the art community, University of North Georgia faculty members took notice. Then they sought to see his pieces in person and expose their students to his distinct perspective.

“Like many of my works there are varying layers of information that get the viewer inside the narrative. It is my interest and working mode to rework and mash up iconography so that the works’ narratives begin to establish a new identity alluding to conditions both physical and psychological,” Meko said in a news release.

“Several of the Department of Visual Arts faculty members had requested the art galleries bring Michi to campus, because his work has gotten a lot of attention in Atlanta,” said Beth Sale, director of Art Galleries at UNG. “The faculty was eager to share the in-person viewing experience with their students.”

UNG will hold an art exhibit of his works titled “Michi Meko: Circle of Rivers.” The exhibit will run from Feb. 11 through March 11 with an artist talk and reception at 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 11. The free event will be in the Hoag Auditorium followed by a reception in the Great Room of the Hoag Student Center, both on the third floor of the building.

“It is a rare treat to have an artist like Michi visit Dahlonega,” Sale said.

Sponsored by UNG Art Galleries and the Department of Visual Arts, the event is organized jointly with the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs’ sponsored “Hip Hop as a Healing Practice.”

“His well-crafted work is grounded in a painterly tradition, but his focus on content marks a clear departure from abstract influences. Our students and the surrounding community are sure to be inspired by his talk on Feb. 11,” Sale said.