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Alison Saar: Bound for Glory

September 17, 2010

A sundry of Pioneers, both students and members of the greater community, braved Sept. 7’s wet weather and made their way to Miller 105, where artist Alison Saar discussed her work. A reception and showcase of her exhibition followed in the Hoffman Gallery of Contemporary Art.

Saar’s presentation, entitled Wither, Hither and Yon, provided a unique insight into her creative process. Saar explained how she uses different mediums to compliment her artistic message—from wood to fiberglass, ceiling tin, and barbed wire, and using tools as diverse as a drawing pencil or a chainsaw.

In explaining her use of salvaged goods to create art, Saar said, “I used materials that had experience. They had a story.”

Some of her titles— Asset Test, Rise, Sally, Rise, Cake-Walk, and Terra Firma—might seem at odds with her serious artistic message.

However, the titles serve to spur critical thought, putting her work in a more appropriate and accessible light. In the case of Terra Firma, a sculpture inspired by the homeless in New York City, Saar said, “I titled it Terra Firma to exhibit just how un-firm our terra can be.”

Of interest to all students, Alison Saar’s exhibit, Bound for Glory, will be on display through Dec. 7 at the Hoffman Gallery.