There are a few things that may catch your eye as you enter Gaddy-Hamrick’s Weems Gallery: a massive metal bird, ants the size of your shoe and the largest, most delicate paper mobiles you’ve probably ever seen. The gallery has welcomed its newest art exhibition, from North Carolina based artist Nicole Uzzell, named “Landscraping- a cultivation in paper.”
The exhibition includes sixteen nature-inspired sculptures formed from handmade paper, reused wire and gardening tools, as well as a variety of other repurposed materials. The intention behind these sculptures is to highlight the ongoing battle and the ever-changing relationship between the mechanical world and our environment. In her own words, Uzzell said, “when the environment and industry fight for existence, the shifts in the landscape unveil the fragility of our planet.” The sculptures evoke a sense of wonder in the observer, with rich textures and layers visually symbolizing the complex relationship between earth and industry. Delicate paper petals are reminders of the fragility of our natural world, while concretely constructed pieces give the sense that some forces of nature are not to be reckoned with. Consistent themes of struggle and opposition are evident throughout.
The exhibit opened in the Weems Gallery on Sept. 3 and will continue through Sept. 30, open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. The artist’s reception will take place on Sept. 26 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with a gallery talk beginning at 5:30 p.m. Attending the events on this day can count towards academic and cultural event requirements. Further information on the artist, including photos of her other works and future exhibitions, are available on her website, www.nicoleuzzell.com.
By Hannah Flood, Staff Writer