Exploring Climate/Change Through Art
In a recent exhibit, the Sioux City Art Center invited artists within a 300-mile radius to respond to the theme “Climate/Change.” The response was overwhelming, with around 140 artists submitting over 400 pieces. Curator Beth Gollnick selected 30 pieces from 30 artists, showcasing a diverse array of mediums including paintings, collages, and sculptures.
Christopher Atkins, the Art Center’s curator, emphasized the role of artists in highlighting climate change. He stated, “Artists are really good at paying attention to those things.” The selected artworks reflect personal and environmental changes, urging viewers to contemplate their own experiences.
One standout piece is Christopher Meyer’s “Honest Mountains-Heavy Range,” a cast iron landscape assembled from packing materials. Weighing over a ton, this piece took two days to install and serves as a powerful statement on waste and environmental impact.
Atkins noted the extensive use of packing materials in Meyer’s work, which mirrors the waste generated from everyday online shopping. “There’s a lot of waste,” he remarked. The artwork transforms mundane materials into a striking geological formation, emphasizing the environmental cost of consumerism.
Innovative Techniques and Themes
Artist Annie Hejny’s “Seeing Salt” employs chloride deicer, Mississippi River water, and locally harvested indigo dye. Her canvas highlights the adverse effects of climate change on water sources. Atkins explained how deicer and other materials from urban areas end up in watersheds, posing hazards to both humans and wildlife.
Hejny’s work is a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of our environment. The materials she uses, collected directly from affected areas, bring a tangible element to the abstract concept of climate change. Her art challenges viewers to consider the unseen consequences of everyday actions.
Laura Hallen’s “LowBright” is inspired by her daily interactions with plants. As a Master Gardener and herbalist, Hallen brings a unique perspective to her acrylic abstract botanical paintings. Her process involves painting on clear plexiglass, creating a layered effect that draws viewers into her botanical world.
Key aspects of Hallen’s work include:
- Direct painting on clear plexiglass
- Multiple layers of paint visible from different angles
- Inspired by botanical interactions
This technique allows Hallen to explore the complexity of plant life and its response to environmental changes.
Diverse Perspectives and Interpretations
Curator Beth Gollnick expressed her excitement about reviewing the diverse submissions. She described it as a “great privilege” to see the various ways artists interpreted the prompt. The artworks ranged from natural landscape depictions to abstract interpretations of scientific data.
Gollnick noted that the collection captures the essence of our current historical moment. The variety of perspectives and styles showcased in the exhibit highlights the multifaceted nature of climate change and its impact on our world. Each piece offers a unique lens through which to view this global issue.
Jess Benjamin’s ceramic work, “U.S. Drought Monitor,” presents a visual representation of drought patterns over the years. This piece underscores the long-term effects of climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events.
Benjamin’s work serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing environmental crisis. By documenting changes over two decades, the artwork provides a compelling visual narrative that urges viewers to consider the future implications of continued climate inaction.
The Future of Climate/Change Exhibits
The exhibition, a collaboration between the City of Sioux City and the Art Center Association, is open to the public until January 5. The success and positive reception of this exhibit have left Atkins eager for the next biennial show.
Atkins is enthusiastic about the evolving nature of the exhibit, anticipating new artists and fresh perspectives in future editions. He remarked, “By 2026, this region will be very different.” The dynamic nature of the art community ensures that each exhibit will present new challenges and insights.
Overall, the “Climate/Change” exhibit provides an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of climate change through art. It invites the public to reflect on their own experiences and the broader environmental changes happening around them.
The exhibit stands as a testament to the power of art in raising awareness and inspiring action. As we face an uncertain environmental future, such initiatives are crucial in fostering a deeper understanding and commitment to sustainability.
sadie_prism4
I’m curious, will there be any workshops or talks by the artists during the exhibit?
Grace
Honestly, 30 pieces out of 400 submissions? That must have been tough to narrow down!
Wesley4
Is there an admission fee for the exhibit? Need to plan my visit.
aurorafatespeaker
Thank you for bringing this important issue to light through art. Truly inspiring!
Avery
Anyone else think the idea of using packing materials for art is kinda ironic? 😂
pepper0
The use of deicer in Annie Hejny’s work is so innovative! Kudos to the artists involved.
ezekielvoyager
How does Laura Hallen manage to paint on clear plexiglass without it smudging?
christopherinferno7
Wow, this exhibit sounds incredible! Can’t wait to see “Honest Mountains-Heavy Range” in person. 😊