ANN ARBOR—In a far-ranging exhibit of their latest creative work, University of Michigan faculty members in the School of Art & Design demonstrate a mastery of technique, and an engaging curiosity in working with new and emerging media while offering a glimpse into the aesthetic issues that shape their art.

Works of 30 artists are featured in this year’s 4th Annual Faculty Exhibition. The exhibit reflects a range of eclectic work by artists at various stages of the creative process, from renderings of concepts to finished pieces of art.

An assemblage of paintings, prints, photography, video, jewelry, kinetic work and installation, the exhibit runs through Feb. 22 at two of the School’s galleries, the Slusser Gallery on Bonisteel Boulevard and Work Ann Arbor on S. State Street.

“This exhibit is a showcase as well as a snapshot of our current work,” said Bryan Rogers, dean of the School of Art & Design. “Each faculty member is actively engaged with issues pertaining to her/his chosen media, as well as the process of continually refining her/his art. This is a glimpse into our research as artists-designers.”

For many, the notion of “research” is an academic activity that is quantifiable, and based on the scientific method of critical observation, hypothesizing, testing, and ultimately, theorizing. In contrast to that conventional definition of research, the U-M artists-designers’ work reflects their dynamic probative inquiries into the realm of emotion and intellect. The work also reveals creative practitioners testing the limits of their media.

“All of the artists-designers were brought together under the mission of providing a broad-based education to students,” said Jim Cogswell, U-M professor of art. “The work doesn’t necessarily represent a single theme. In fact, it stretches the viewer to take in a diverse range of experiences.”

Exhibition offers artists-designers an opportunity to engage with audiences. The aim is to spark a connection.

“There’s an expectation when you put your work out that it will stir a dialogue about where you’re at with your work,” said Tirtza Even, A&D assistant professor. “The hope is that the conversation goes beyond the mundane and into places that we care about.”

The School of Art & Design 4th Annual Faculty Exhibition is at the Slusser Gallery, 2000 Bonisteel Blvd., Ann Arbor. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

The exhibit also fills Work Gallery, 306 S. State St., downtown Ann Arbor. Hours: noon-7 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; noon-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday; closed Monday.