ALTOONA, Pa. — “ACCESS DENIED,” a body of work by visual arts studies senior Matthew Hicks, will run April 20 through 30 in the Sheetz Gallery of the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts. The exhibition is free and open to the public.

“ACCESS DENIED” is a glimpse into the world of childhood food insecurity, inspired by Hicks' own experiences with childhood poverty. Using digital media, photography, and found object installations, Hicks takes a minimalist approach and expresses what childhood poverty looks like from his perspective.

Hicks is from Altoona, and said he has always had a passion for making art. In 2023, he intends to receive a bachelor of arts degree in visual arts studies at Penn State Altoona. Hicks has had his work shown in various exhibitions, including several at the Sheetz and McLanahan Galleries at Penn State Altoona.

The galleries are open Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and before and during all events. For further information, call the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts at 814-949-5452.