On View at 49 Oak

Maine College of Art & Design recognizes that printmaking is a vehicle for vernacular culture, social dissent, and cultural identity. In an age of instant reproduction and shifting definitions of authenticity, the act of printmaking remains a true format for elastic experimentation. The artists included in this exhibition, through an open call, collectively inhabit this commitment to exploration and the work is a reflection of the various formats for which printmaking can translate ideas.

The mills in Liberty, Maine began to close in 1860. By the time I was born all that remained were stone foundations slowly eroding as the river reclaimed the banks. Born from these early explorations, studies of religion, doomsday and science fiction, That as fun, is an inquiry into the impermanence of humanity. In my pitch-black studio I double expose expired large format slide film using lasers projected through prisms, and obscure portions of the film using found objects and my body. The double-exposures create unanticipated colors and markings, transforming the film into unique objects. The process enables the images to take on the appearance of a memory or prophecy.

The 2023 BFA Thesis Exhibition showcases the work of 78 MECA&D Seniors. Refraction will encompass four floors of the college’s Porteous Building, as well as the 49 Oak Gallery space. In addition, there will be a collection of work on view by graduating Animation & Game Art majors: Soulstice, located on the first floor of the Porteous building.

In the same way that a beam of light refracts and splits into a variety of colors, the Class of 2023 has synthesized their shared experiences and begins to move forward in different directions. Refraction represents the cumulative journey each student has taken, highlighting their perspectives, contributions, and dedication to the Maine College of Art & Design community. For some, their explorations boldly push the boundaries of fine art, craft, and design: questioning conventions and charting new courses. Others carry the torch of artists who came before them—building upon long-established traditions.

MECA&D gathered these artists together and now their paths will diverge; after all, it is only when light refracts that we can see each color for its individual beauty.refraction banner

Celebrate love with the Illustration students, faculty and alumni!

 

Noise Collective is a group of BFA students collaborating with one another on experimental projects. They hosted a pop up shop featuring prints, clothing and more in our new 49 Oak Gallery March 3-26, 2023, with an opening reception on Friday, March 3 from 5-8pm. Members include Winslow Trainum, Vic Scarpato, Ana Lucia, Claire Christensen, Sophie Craven, Miah Barnard, Wills Phillips, Milo McNeil, Mason Bater, Parish Kirchoff.

Resilience Week focuses on supporting BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) students, faculty, staff, and members of the greater Portland community, as well as creating a school-wide culture that celebrates the lived experiences and individual stories that contribute to the vibrancy of the College. Created by the Students of Color Coalition (SCC), Resilience Week features public and private events centered on important conversations about diversity, intersectionality, identity, and social change.

As artists, we learn by making, by doing, and by collaborating. This year’s theme of Healing, Self-Care, and Community encourages a sense of empathy and belonging by bringing students together to ply their craft, share their stories, and affect change on campus and beyond.