Missouri Southern State University’s Cragin Art Gallery presents Topical: A Retrospective, a mixed-media exhibition featuring the work of nationally and internationally exhibited artist Michael Koerner, from Oct. 9 through Nov. 17. The exhibition marks a significant milestone in Koerner’s career as his 100th exhibition.
Koerner has developed a distinctive interdisciplinary and socially responsive approach to contemporary art, with concepts, materials, techniques and scale continually evolving to address the context of a particular topical issue. Satire serves as a recurring thread throughout much of his work, allowing him to examine the human condition and the ways individuals and societies respond to the issues surrounding them.
A tenured Associate Professor of New Media at Indiana University- Kokomo, Koerner holds an M.F.A. in Painting from Edinburgh College of Art and a B.F.A. in Printmaking from Herron School of Art. His work has been exhibited extensively throughout the United States and internationally in nine countries, including exhibitions in London, Chicago, San Diego, Athens, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Munich, Rome and Belfast.
Koerner’s recent work reflects his continued willingness to experiment across disciplines and media. In 2025, he presented back-to-back solo exhibitions in Wisconsin and Arizona featuring two distinct touring bodies of work, Rise & Fall and Patterns. Patterns, comprised entirely of wallpaper designs, represent a new direction in Koerner’s practice, exploring the intersection of interior design and social commentary. His artwork has received recognition from Sotheby’s, Bonhams and Phillips Auctioneers and is represented in permanent collections in the United States, Scotland, Northern Ireland and South Korea. Notably, two of his works are part of the United Kingdom’s National Public Art Collection.
Topical: A Retrospective offers audiences an opportunity to experience the breadth and evolution of Koerner’s interdisciplinary practice while considering the social, cultural and human issues that continue to inform his work. The exhibit is free to the public and will take place until Nov. 17.
For additional information about Topical: A Retrospective and upcoming exhibitions and programs, contact Missouri Southern State University’s art department or the Cragin Art Gallery’s Director, Dr. Christine Bentley.
