While some art forms rely on striking and bold colors to catch the eye of viewers, Molly Wicks instead uses an unusual technique called “subtractive form” in her collection “Phases For Now.” She explores the space between the textile, the color and the viewer’s perspective to combine into a piece that can have many interpretations and implications. Her creative process is unique to say the least, and she describes it as “working from sedimentary layers, fungus, and mold forms, then applying paint to the cut which provides an organic grid whose holes and back refract into shadow harmonies.” This results in pieces made from suspended plexiglass, metal and canvas on which she has cut out or painted organic shapes. From the moment someone walks into the gallery, they can see that it is not a typical collection.
It is clear that the artist draws heavy inspiration from nature, since many of the pieces either depict elements of nature or allude greatly to shapes commonly found in the environment. Some of the pieces are more literal, such as a layered painting of an owl or butterfly. In order to construct them, Wicks paints on layered glass to give the art more fullness, and the illusion of three dimensions on just a two dimensional scale. Other pieces in the gallery are more subtle, depicting organic and fungal shapes with a modern twist and innovative way of using color. Even those that tend to lean towards the sciences rather than the visual arts can find something to appreciate about the biological approach and inspiration to art.
Once again showing innovative style, Wicks plays with “ghosts of color” by painting the inside and back side of the textiles. From a direct point of view, the pieces can seem monochrome, but once approached from the side, the viewer sees vibrant and intentional colors. Much of the artwork is also displayed elevated away from the wall, which adds the extra dimension of shadow into the experience. Depending on what time of day someone visits the gallery, they may see something entirely different from another viewer that saw the pieces when the sun was at a different height.
Another interesting element about the exhibit is that the pieces in the gallery have no placards with the name and description. Instead, the pieces are scattered around the gallery at different heights and angles without explanation, which leaves the viewer the ability to be an active participant in the exhibit. It seems as if the viewer’s perception and interpretation is just as important as the artist’s work. And indeed students have given their own thoughts after viewing the gallery. Upon reflecting on the exhibit, Senior biology and theater major Elli Zerr says that “I think oftentimes when you try to combine art and science, people look for the beauty in an object. Wicks found a way to find the beauty of an object. Even something as simple as fungi.” This captures the mysterious nature of Wicks’ work: it finds the intrinsic beauty of nature and portrays it in a new and interesting way. “Phases for Now” is available for viewing in the Korver Art Building until Oct. 17, with the artist’s public reception at 7:30 on Sep. 26. For those looking for innovative techniques and thought-provoking pieces, Wicks’ collection is the perfect place to look.
