Shards of glass, linoleum plates and bakeable modeling clay may not seem to hold much potential, but for Camille Visser, these things are the stuff dreams and stories are made of. As a senior art and graphic design major, Visser has used these materials and more for the last two and half years in preparation for her senior art show.
Visser will open her own show on the main floor of the Dewitt Learning Commons on Nov. 15. The public reception, entitled Little Beginnings, will open with an introduction and welcome from Visser at 7 p.m. Following the event, the gallery will remain open through Nov. 21.
The title of the show, Visser explains, “holds personal connection to how I have grown as an artist since I began drawing and sculpting as a young child.”
In fact, Visser reveals the depth of her passion for the arts by sharing her earliest inspiration for sculpting – Jo Litchfield’s book “The Usborne Book of Everyday Words,” which Visser discovered as a 6-year-old. As her passion and style has evolved, Visser also looks back fondly on the animations of Disney and other studios that sparked her imagination. Visser’s artistic journey may be described as a slow-but-steady burn.
“What began small has grown into a great love for art and design, as well as better honed art-making skills,” Visser said.
Not only does Visser incorporate her own inspired style into her work, but also the story of her own life.
“In creating all my art, I am trying to figure out my own story and the place God has for me in His plan,” Visser said. “Every artwork in my exhibition contains personal connections to my life, and since each piece holds importance to who I am, I have sculpted and carved and painted with patient detail.”
Visser stresses that patience has been essential in preparing for the labor of love that is Little Beginnings, especially with some of the trickier mediums.
“Working with broken glass has been the most challenging of all of the art I have created,” Visser said. “I discovered I loved the challenge of sculpting something rounded using sharp shards – a feat that seemed impossible when I began working with broken glass.”
Other mediums guests can expect tinclude ceramic clay, oil paints, etching and monotype prints, and relief prints. Despite the intricate detail, attention and time required to create these pieces, Visser describes the relief prints as some of her favorite pieces due to their “designs and vibrant colors.”
As her show is fast-approaching, Visser reflects back on her time at Northwestern and those who have supported her with deep gratitude.
“My family, especially my mom, has been so helpful all my life in giving me feedback and encouragement about my artwork,” Visser said, mentioning the significant support she has received from her friends and professors as well.
Of the next step in her story, Visser speaks hopefully of adventures abroad and post-graduation:
“I am so excited to see what God has planned for me after this semester and after college,” she said. “I am so thankful for the opportunity to share my art with campus, family, and friends before I study abroad in London this coming spring semester.”
