Internship Takes Shape

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 18:01:10 +0000

Internship Takes Shape HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 09/16/2024 - 14:01

Art student working with renowned sculptor

September 17, 2024

Heather Harris Michonski

While exploring a museum in New York City, a chance encounter led John Attebury, ’27, to secure a unique summer internship, one that introduced him to internationally renowned artist Greg Wyatt.

The New Jersey native was home over spring break and together with his mom, took the train into the city to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Inside, he was surprised when a woman approached him and asked if he went to 51�Թ��.

“I was wearing a red BSU hoodie,” John explained.

The sweatshirt caught the attention of BSU’s Chief of Staff and Vice President of Planning and Strategy Dr. Deniz Zeynep Leuenberger.

“Of course I had to introduce myself,” Leuenberger said.

After learning that John was studying graphic design at Bridgewater and very much into the arts, she was inspired to connect him with Wyatt.

“I was excited to have the chance to introduce John to Greg Wyatt because I knew it would allow him entry into the art world so that he can discover what it is he wants to focus on in his education and career,” Leuenberger said.

BSU’s relationship with Wyatt came to be when lifelong Bridgewater residents Larry and Kitty Doherty, who have donated more than 40 works of art to the university, helped to bring to campus Wyatt’s bronze statue sculpture depicting legendary ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov.

The statue was installed on the eastern side of Maxwell Library in 2017. Since then, more of Wyatt’s pieces have been added to create the Greg and Fay Wyatt Sculpture Garden, creating a destination point for community members at BSU and beyond.

On top of his generous donation, Wyatt also offered to work with and mentor students.

“Greg Wyatt’s support of our students and his faith in education elevates the mission of BSU within the goal of student success,” said Jay Block, associate director of Collections and Exhibitions. “Creativity and innovation are key words within the economic and political sectors which our graduates must compete. This type of exposure allows our students to compete and excel.”

Over the summer, John traveled to Wyatt’s studio in upstate New York where he received ongoing feedback, was given challenges and instruction while being exposed to the workings of an active studio.

“I learned to abandon my ego as an artist, and that it’s the practice, not necessarily the finished result that matters,” he said. “It also made me realize that art, being creative, is what I want to do as a career. It really shines more light on what I want to do and where I want to go in my life.”

Art Professor Rob Lorenson, who has had John in class, said internships like this are one of the best forms of education.

“A professional studio exposes students to a different level of motivation and work ethic that is beneficial,” Lorenson said. “Every sculpture studio is unique, and they will learn that unique approach which they cannot in the school setting.”

After working with Wyatt, John arrived back on campus this fall with a renewed sense of purpose.

“I’m very excited to start learning again, to come back into the dynamic environment Bridgewater offers,” he said. “I really can’t wait.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Please email stories@bridgew.edu

Greg Wyatt’s support of our students and his faith in education elevates the mission of BSU within the goal of student success. Creativity and innovation are key words within the economic and political sectors which our graduates must compete. This type of exposure allows our students to compete and excel.

Jay Block, associate director of Collections and Exhibitions

The Fabric of Art

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 14:54:12 +0000

The Fabric of Art HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 09/09/2024 - 10:54

Anderson Gallery exhibit puts spotlight on work of Ghana-born artist

September 10, 2024

Heather Harris Michonski

When artist Clara Nartey learned about the importance of diversity at 51�Թ��, she immediately wanted to exhibit her work at the school.

“Traditional media, until recently, has not always presented Black people in a way that is complimentary,” Nartey said. “I want to portray people the way that I see them, to show that I value them and think they are worthy.”

The Ghana-born artist currently lives in Connecticut where she creates art using thread, digital painting, machine embroidery, and quilting to make bold and colorful textures.

Nartey’s solo exhibit, “Fabric of Identity,” will be on display in the Wallace L. Anderson Gallery and on the second floor of the Maxwell Library Aug. 21 through Oct. 21.

When researching artists to bring to BSU, Jay Block, associate director of collections and exhibits, said Nartey’s work caught his attention.

“I look for work that highlights the possibilities of what art can be, beyond the expected paint and sculpture,” he said. “I want to show work that demonstrates artistic excellence in the handling of the chosen material and reflects an original vision about the artist’s concerns.”

Nartey’s use of fabrics and oblique images particularly stood out to Block.

“Her portraits are bright, bold, and show the individuals as powerful,” he said. “My thought was they would speak to our campus community.”

One of the more recognizable aspects of Nartey’s work is the focus on the hairstyles of Black women. Upon moving to the United States, she herself struggled with how to wear her hair.

“In West Africa, women have very intricate and elaborate hairstyles,” she said. “But I soon learned that those types of styles were frowned upon. Eventually, it became a decision between hiding my hair or embracing my identity. I decided to embrace it and wear my hair naturally.”

Learning to embrace one’s authentic self is the message she hopes to convey to those who view her work, especially students.

“I know what it feels like to be different, to not look like the person next to you...it’s important for students to feel seen,” Nartey said. “I want them to see themselves, to be reflected on the wall, and know they belong.”

Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I know what it feels like to be different, to not look like the person next to you...it’s important for students to feel seen. I want them to see themselves, to be reflected on the wall, and know they belong.

Clara Nartey