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The new exhibit “Horizons: Paintings by Marc Burnett” opens January 13, at the Cookeville History Museum with a reception from 5-7 p.m.. 

Many know Burnett as a retired Tennessee Tech University Vice President for Student Affairs but may not realize he is also a prolific artist who has completed numerous paintings in various styles. 

“My inspiration is my sense of wonder about the world in which we live. I personally refer to my work as remnants,” Burnett said.  “So many times, we move through this life with a destination in mind, but we often miss the journey due to focus on the destination.”

Much of Burnett’s work is about his stops along that journey. When those moments can’t be described in words, he tries to express it on canvas. His paintings allow the viewer to see him in a new and personal way.

“When you see my work, you are seeing a part of me that I likely would not reveal any other way.  Kind of like wearing your heart on your sleeve—remnants of my life in pictures, so to speak.  It’s quite personal,” Burnett said. 

Burnett’s work also inspires reflection and hope to the viewer.

“I hope that some will look at it and realize that, while this world can sometimes appear quite dreary and cold, there is always something to be thankful for—just look around,” he said. 

This one-man art exhibition, running through March 25, represents decades of Burnett’s work and includes pieces which have never been shown publicly. 

“Horizons: Paintings by Marc Burnett” may be viewed at the Cookeville History Museum, 40 E. Broad St., Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 520-5455.