In an artistic community sensitive to censorship and freedom of speech, very few artists are given the opportunity to share their politically and socially charged pieces of work with the general public. Addressing current issues relevant to college life and raising global awareness are important parts of a healthy artistic community on a college campus.
The work of Kurt Brian Webb, a printmaker from Illinois strongly embodies these ideas, particularly in his powerful collection of prints entitled, Dance of Death: Black and White and Blood Red All Over. Currently on display in the Lamson Library through December 20, the prints are Webb’s artistic vision of war in society.
His prints, which are heavily themed around military figures, malevolent skeletal imagery, and the progression of military technology, form a powerful social and political commentary on the war in Iraq. Each print is pressed directly from woodblocks onto Japanese paper then superimposed over a current news story relating to death, the Middle East, and its conflicts. The images combine with the text to create a powerful and disturbing image of past military mistakes, and political uncertainty.
The caption under one print entitled Goggle Displaying Fighter Pilot, reads:
“Picture perfect killers, military weapons are often technological marvels, but always instruments of death.” Other major issues addressed in his work included the treatment of war veterans, amputees, and the rising death toll in the Middle East.
Though centered on death, loss, and skeletal imagery, Webb’s goal for this collection of work is to emphasize the mocking irony of his images, their dark humor, and the idea that the lives of those he depicts were fleetingly short, thus we should all seize the day. “I have chosen to create a social commentary that provokes the viewer through humor, satire, and cynicism. I acknowledge traditional influences and build upon them while pursuing individuality.”
Any student or aspiring artist who supports this progressive artistic spirit and the right to free speech is encouraged to view this collection of relevant and meaningful work. The next Lamson print series entitled Voices of American Farm Women, will begin October 24, and will be on display through November 20. Another progressive collection of work, Voices of American Farm Women presents a modern perspective on the roles of women in agriculture and society.
Photographer Cynthia Vagnetti has documented women from across the U.S. whose farming techniques help to support environmental responsibility, economic strength, and community welfare. The 30 black-and-white photographs explore a diverse group of women and their relationship to the land, with Vagnetti effectively combining the power of image and word with interviews conducted with her subjects, and their oral history.