Amy Roth ‘11

Although art does not play a huge role in my life, I do enjoy it. I think that if there were a large paucity of art on campus, those like myself and especially those who care a great deal about art would have spoken up by now. Not only do we have the Hartnett Gallery in Wilson Commons and senior art projects displayed regularly, but also there has recently been an increased attempt to increase the amount of art that we see on a daily basis on campus as the hallways and the walls of our study areas are gradually being covered with various pieces. Gleason also showcases student art, such as the larger-than-life knitting needles and knitted ‘fabric’ that is currently on display. If this is not enough, the Memorial Art Gallery offers discounts to UR students to explore the Gallery’s collections. I feel that there are sufficient opportunities to experience and enjoy art on our campus. I think the main role of art on campus is to improve the atmosphere with thought-provoking, attention-attracting expressions of the human experience, and I find that the art here does precisely that.

Jenny Viera ‘11

I don’t know if “the lack of art on campus” is the right terminology. As others have pointed out there is plenty of art out there if you seek it: Sage, the Hartnett Gallery, the Art/Music Library, and off-campus venues. The truth is that there is really a lack of interest in art on campus, and that is why those who are interested feel like there isn’t a sufficient amount. As a Studio Arts major, I am constantly reminded that if I was truly serious about studying art then I should have studied elsewhere. I wanted to receive a well-rounded education so I came here to pursue psychology as well, but I am just as serious about art as I ever was. More…Less…

Jess King ‘10

As I was writing this, I came to the conclusion that I have a lot of opinions about the amount of art on this campus. To save your eyes, my thoughts are divided into four sections: 1) We have it? 2) Cartoons - wtf? 3) Who even looks at it? 4) Oh right, we have those magazines… Read whichever you would like. AND, if you find that what I’ve said is somewhat offensive and it enrages you, go look at the art just to prove me wrong (it’s a win-win situation). More…Less…

Erin Sanehira ‘11

I should probably care a lot more about art than I do, but honestly, I don’t. The fact that we have the Hartnett Art Gallery and the display in front of the Art/Music Library is above and beyond my minimum art quota. I guess if there was absolutely no art on campus and every wall were naked, then it would get a little depressing. But as of now, I am content. As a prospective student, I visited a college that consistently brought in new, funky paintings to brighten up the hallways. And yes, admittedly, that was pretty cool. But this school also provided maid service to wash your sheets and vacuum your room. Guess which one I was more impressed with. This is not to say that I think art is worthless, because I do understand that it is beautiful beyond my comprehension. I admire the artists and the art critics for their talents and insight, but I suppose I’m just a practical person. I appreciate clever logo designs, intriguing webpage layouts and paintings that serve as nice focal points and conversation starters. And I think it’s great that people do have a passion for art. But since we do have Hartnett, Sage and MAG (since it is only a short shuttle ride away). I would question if the desire for more art comes from those who sufficiently seek it. If yes, you do take advantage of all the art the University has to offer and you’re still craving more, then fine. Make a club. Put up weird, complicated comics in random places. Whatever. As I said earlier, I honestly don’t care.

Emily Grzybowski ‘11
 

I’m an Art major and a Genetics major here, and I’ve heard both sides of the argument ad nausea. Yes, I would like there to be more exhibitions at the MAG, more juried exhibitions for students (i.e. me) and more art in general (the “tunnel gallery” by the art and music library hasn’t changed since I’ve been here, though people have tried). What’s the most disheartening as a Studio Arts major, however, is the lack of knowledge in the student body. Most of the people I meet don’t know we have an art department, or that Sage is anything more than something to avoid when sledding. Yes, it’s our job as art majors and art enthusiasts to spread the knowledge, but at a certain point, people don’t care. There are so many fascinating things going on HERE on campus, in Sage, in the Art and Music Library, at the MAG, during First Friday and everywhere… get out there! Come see us! The art department is the most welcoming place I’ve been on campus: we have some of the most caring faculty, the nicest people, and some of the most ridiculously interesting students I’ve ever met. So, do your cluster by studying in NYC for a semester with our Art New York program, attend an opening (free food!), go to Art Awake, attend a First Friday event (buses to tons of galleries around the city where you can meet tons of people and eat more free food!), check out the Susan B Anthony En(Gendered) exhibition, join the Sage Art Center Facebook group or just stop by Sage. There’s always something interesting going on, and it’s one of the best experiences I’ve had here at UR. More…Less…

Maya Dukmasova ‘11

Is there a lack of art on campus? The truth is that one has to pay attention — and not just to the Hartnett Gallery or Sage. The fact that we have two galleries on campus is, to me, a sign that the visual arts are alive and well here. It’s true that the majority of students here are involved in the Sciences, natural or social, but I for one know many art majors and even a couple of professors in the art department. The problem seems to be that the artists on campus are disregarded in general. In my experience they are very active, exciting people, but if you ask a non-art student about art, mostly what you get back is a blank stare. I believe that programs like Art Awake do a great deal to increase the campus community’s awareness of the visual and performance cultures at Rochester. Plus, just looking around Wilson Commons reminds us that there is art to be found for those seeking it. Case in point: giant banner for Gregory van Mannen’s show at the Mag. Also, the giant photograph by Carl Chiarenza on the fourth floor is a testament to the visual culture associated with the University. Sure, the art at the school does not slap you full-force in the face like it does at an “arts” school, but it is to be discovered, and what I find is definitely satisfying.