Ashford University’s Cortona Art Gallery will come alive with stringed puppets during its first exhibit of the fall 2012 semester, “Everyday Marionettes,” from Sept. 17 through Oct. 17.

Ken Vogel of Madison, WI has been making puppets for more than 40 years. Most of his creations have been stringed puppets or marionettes, made to order for individuals or stores. Vogel enjoys learning about the subjects for his marionettes and working with papier-mâché, paint, and fabric to capture a likeness or interpretation of each subject. His works are available at the Wisconsin Society Museum gift shop on Capitol Square in Madison.

The puppets in Ashford’s exhibit come from the collection of Jim Kirchstein of Mt. Horeb, WI, who began collecting Vogel’s marionettes almost 30 years ago when he discovered them for sale in Madison. Since then he has purchased more than 200, usually directly from the artist. In most cases, he has suggested the subjects of the marionettes to represent some of his interests – history, mythology, the Bible, literature and music.

A reception for the artist will be held on the last day of the exhibit, Wednesday, Oct. 17 from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the gallery.

The Cortona Art Gallery is located on the second floor of Ashford University’s Clare Hall at 400 North Bluff Boulevard in Clinton. The Gallery is named for Sister Cortona Phelan, OSF, former president of Mount St. Clare College (MSC) and former president of the Sisters of St. Francis. For many years, Sister Cortona influenced the quality of education at the college through her teaching of American history and her love of the arts. She also served as MSC Academy principal and as dean of students at the college.

The Gallery is open to the public, free of charge, every weekday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and for private showings by appointment. For further information, please call 563.242.4023.

About Ashford University

Ashford University is defining the modern college experience by combining the heritage of a traditional campus with the flexibility and effectiveness of online learning. The University provides a vibrant learning community where high-quality programs and leading-edge technology create a dynamic, immersive and stimulating learning experience. Ashford University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (www.ncahlc.org). The University offers practical and progressive associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs online, as well as bachelor’s degree programs at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. Ashford University – where heritage meets innovation. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.