There is not much that can compete with the brilliant fall colors popping up around campus. But EA's first Install-It project of the school year added splashes of dazzling color inside the Crawford Campus Center Gallery. The Upper School art club, Install-It, produced and curated the three-day, pop-up, polka dot-themed exhibit.
"Alexandra Peyton '18 came across a similar piece on the web and thought it was a great way to create a colorful work that all ages could help out with," explained EA Art Teacher and Install-It Advisor Hilary Hutchison.
The theme was inspired by artist Yayoi Kusama's "Obliteration Room."
The Install-It team prepared the gallery by cutting out hundreds of differently sized colorful dots and covering the floor and walls with white paper. They also moved in a small white table and chair. Throughout the three days, the Gallery exploded with dots as students, faculty, staff, and parents popped in to add dots of their choice to the exhibit. "The space really came alive and felt animated and really happy with all of those dots. It was like being in a birthday cake," observed Hutchison.
"I think this exhibit was one of the most successful exhibits because it was relatively easy to do and everyone was able to participate," said Install-It club member Piper Hartman '17.
EA Gallery curator Susan Coote shared, "I love how they intentionally chose that project to get students of all ages into the Gallery and participating! And unintentionally, they introduced the school to the work of Yayio Kusama, a wonderful and beloved artist."
Students have plans in the works for other Install-It exhibits around campus
throughout the school year. "I think this first pop-up was a true success, and I can't wait to see what the club will do next," said Hutchison. "I see talented artists, and I also see young people who work hard to cultivate and nurture their craft and develop a deep appreciation for the visual arts."