In addition to providing resources and a comfortable space for study, research, and leisurely reading, the library turns out to be a great gallery for student artwork. The stairwell in particular provides a space that seems custom designed for the three-dimensional art installations produced in Professor Nnenna Okore’s Spatial Arts I class. The next time you’re in the library look at the creative clothing currently on display. The assignment was to create a sculptural piece exploring a wearable article of clothing as a sculptural form. The works reflect the students’ understanding of a chosen medium and process of application such as beading, weaving, sewing, tying, wiring, etc.; taking into consideration the use of space or how it is affected by space. The pieces would be conceptual, while maintaining a connection to personal space and the experiences with the chosen reference.
Natalie Bergman found her inspiration for “Plastic Scarf” (hanging from the third floor) in her love of knitting, a skill she learned in grade school, and her discovery that plastic grocery bags, when cut into strips, behave like yarn. “This was an exciting realization and I wanted to knit something familiar only to make a drastic change. As the scarf grew in size the pattern that formed with the various bags gave the scarf a textural quality that resembled fabric. The size of the scarf is meant to be overwhelming and impossible to wear.” Indeed!
Fnan Ysahak created his “Dress for Mother Nature” out of tulle fabric and seed pods, suspended from a top made of wooden cubes strung together with fishing wire. “This abstract gown is inspired by clothing worn in African tribes I had seen on television as well as up close.”
Visit the Art Department’s website to learn more about art courses and resources.
Sally Anderson is the Director of Brandel Library.
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