A&E

MHCC art students add some color to the library

By Bryan DeLomba

MHCC students have made an impact on the MHCC library and added color by showcasing their artwork for the public to view. “I look for work that reveals nuggets of possibilities,” MHCC art teacher Lori Lorion said in an e-mail interview from Paris, where she is on a one-term sabbatical. Lorion is in charge of choosing which pieces will be displayed in the library, as well as around campus.

One of the difficulties Lorion said she faces is many of the students are still beginners. “These students need time to develop craft and it is usually not helpful to their development to exhibit too soon. Though, when the time is right, hanging work publicly hastens development,” she said.

“Who is to say when the time is right? The right time is easier to recognize in some of our more advanced students, and students who have taken art in high school. They are eager to exhibit and seem ready. However, we have had several absolute beginners show a very respectable painting after only one term.”

Another minor issue presented to Lorion yearly is complaints due to graphic artwork that offends some students. “Sometimes a complaint comes to me, sometimes it does not,” said Lorion. There are currently a few nude art pieces in the library but Lorion has not heard of any complaints so far.

MHCC art student Ramon Mejia said the library has been asked to take down a few art pieces due to graphic nature. Mejia has had an art piece taken down in the past due to offensive material. The painting was a Catholic priest standing with his pant fly down. Mejia was told this painting outraged many people and he said it was quickly taken down. “Art should be able to inspire those feelings when people get upset with your work,” said Mejia.

Lorion said, “Art reveals an inner world. The students on this campus are living, breathing human beings alive in difficult times. Why shouldn’t the art be upsetting? If the students had more control of their craft, there would be a greater revelation, therefore, more controversy. You can’t teach language and then ask people to be quiet. Art is language.”