Melissa Web during the opening reception for her latest installment of “The Temporary Nature of Ideas.”
Photo by Theresa Keil.
Photo by Theresa Keil
‘The Temporary Nature of Ideas’ is a surrealist’s fantasy brought to life and left open to re-interpretation by those who enter the Main Gallery at School 33. Anyone can go until October 30th and create their own additions to the exhibit.
Photo by Theresa Keil.
Photo by Theresa Keil
Monica Julianna Mirabile, Melissa Webb and Theresa Columbus
During the opening, artist Melissa Webb enlisted the help of friends who encouraged participants to build their contributions to the installation and helped hang the creations from cables suspended by a pulley system. Off to the side of the Main Gallery lies the “making room” that hosts materials, supplies and tools for guests to use to create art.
Photo by Theresa Keil.
Photo by Theresa Keil
“The whole time I was playing hostess so I didn’t get to participate very much. At one point I noticed that the gallery seemed kind of empty. At first I didn’t realize that everyone was in the making room but when I poked my head in I was extremely excited to find everyone happy and focused on what they were making.” -Melissa Webb.
Photo by Theresa Keil.
Photo by Theresa Keil
Jackie Milad
“I am interested in removing the separation between the viewer and the work of art, as well as between the audience member and the performer. I want to enable others to become directly involved with the work, and to give them a role in determining the ultimate outcome of each piece.” –Melissa Webb
Photo by Theresa Keil.
Photo by Theresa Keil
Jackie Milad and Theresa Columbus
As of today, this gallery and the making room are full of pieces hanging from the cables suspended from the walls. The only instructions were to let the additions be inspired by unfulfilled or abandoned ideas. We made a trip there yesterday and left our mark on the exhibition. The gallery at School 33 is open Wednesday through Saturday 12 to 6 pm if you feel moved to take in the exhibition or even contribute.
Photo by Theresa Keil.
Photo by Theresa Keil
Typically at openings people spend a few seconds with each piece of art. During the opening of ‘The Temporary Nature of Ideas’ the visitors were immersed in the art and spent up to two hours creating and interacting with the installation.
Photo by Theresa Keil.
Photo by Theresa Keil
Quite simply, one sure way to create art that resonates is to invite the public to participate. The act of yielding creative control demonstrates an openness that’s refreshing. Whether by accident or design, Melissa Webb’s work speaks to a larger theme that we’re starting to see a more of. What I’m talking about is provoked interaction. Humanity is trending towards seeking out deeper connections. Providing meaningful habitats for this is essential.
Congratulations, Melissa, on your opening. It’s a grand example of forward thinking and selflessness and we can’t wait to see what you do next.
Photo by Theresa Keil.
