Art exhibit ‘stains’ onlookers’ minds

Comprised of the work of seven graduating students, the senior art exhibition titled “Stains” opened for viewing on April 27.

The exhibition features a total of 15 works by senior artists Jessica Butelo, Nathan Ellefson, John Kuhn, Heather Meyer, Katrina Snediker, Giselle Stone and Kathryn Williamson. All seven students are majoring in art or psychology.

The goal of the exhibit, “Stains,” is to leave an impression on the viewer, according to a statement posted in the exhibit.

“Pigment set on our skin, clothes and studio space, while the work itself leaves a lasting stain on the artist’s mind and, hopefully, that of the viewer,” it stated.

The exhibit contains numerous types of work including mixed media, silkscreen on muslin, oil on wood, acrylic on canvas, graphic design and oil on canvas.

Each artist had a brief statement posted in the gallery, which revealed the varying inspirations and goals each artist had for their work.

“I hope to challenge the viewer by blending or evaporating boundaries, providing discomfort and challenging their sense of normalcy,” Kuhn wrote in his statement.
Other artists had more personal goals for their work.

“One of the greatest desires in a person is to be understood and it is a goal, through my paintings, to encourage viewers to stop and think about how others have gotten into their current situations,” Butelo wrote.

Inspired by friends’ weddings, one artist, Stone, created a bridal-themed display. The focal point of the work was a wedding gown on which had been written a to-do list for a wedding.

“The message is clear,” Stone wrote. “This life altering event isn’t about marriage; it’s about the bride, and more importantly, the dress.”

Ellefson stated that his two pieces on display had been inspired by poems from his family history. He explained that they contained veiled moral messages that were supposed to make the viewer work to comprehend them.

“Part of the point is, not necessarily to be confusing, but to be dense,” Ellefson said.

Ellefson also noted the personal benefit he has received through his artwork, notably the opportunity to see his finished product. In a world where many are unable to see the direct results of their work, art eliminates the disconnect between work and product.

“Art is much more direct,” Ellefson said.

The exhibition is on display in the Lied Center for the Visual Arts, in the Bryan Oliver Gallery. It will remain open until noon on May 15.

Contact Max Nelsen at max.nelsen@whitworthian.com.

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