"The artworks included in New Currents in Contemporary Art are visually and intellectually exciting - reflecting the incredible talent, independent spirit and professionalism of each young artist," says Barbara Matilsky, curator of exhibitions at the Ackland Art Museum.

Beginning April 16, the Ackland Art Museum will present new work by nine emerging artists who will earn their master of fine arts degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill this May. New Currents in Contemporary Art: The 2000 Master of Fine Arts Exhibition is an annual exhibition that gives the university and the surrounding region an opportunity to see innovative artwork in a variety of media - painting, sculpture, drawing, photography and installation.

The photographic and mixed media work of Becca Albee and Laena Wilder explores human identity. While Albee finds a different kind of beauty inside the world of ice skaters and gymnasts, Wilder looks at the group and individual dynamics within college sororities. Carrie Alter explores the complex identity of adolescent girls through large-scale paintings, while the mixed media installations of Kate Anthony and Bill Thelen consider the multiple affects of feminine and masculine roles in our culture.

The work of sculptor Julie Dougherty and photographer Beth Nardella illustrates memories through cast metal and found objects - and photographic images of lost "home towns." Susan D'Amato's drawings weave the personal with the universal to find various interrelationships, while painter Mathias Sias is interested in finding an overall simplicity through multiple layers of paint.

An opening reception will be held on Sunday, April 16 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. In addition, a gallery talk with the artists will take place on Wednesday, April 26 at 12:15 p.m. Both events are free and open to the public. New Currents in Contemporary Art will be on view from April 16 through May 28.

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