The installation piece, “A history of all her secret thoughts,” by artist and St. Norbert College theater professor, April Beiswenger, is featured in our Godschalx Gallery from August 31-September 25. I recently interviewed April about the exhibit:
Describe the piece you are creating in the gallery.
It is an environment. I am asking the viewer to come into a space that encloses them and encircles them with pattern, color, and shape.
How did you choose the title of the work?
This is my 6th exhibition in the Godschalx gallery and for all but the first, I have taken the title from Shakespeare. This year’s title is from Richard III. I have also taken titles from Hamet, Merchant of Venice, King Lear, and Henry VI part II. I think the next exhibition’s title will be from the Tempest.
How do your theater work and gallery work influence one another?
My theatrical designs and my gallery work are one in the same – they both are concerned with visual narrative and the manipulation of space/objects to affect the viewer. The only difference is in context and expectations.
What is your best piece of advice for student artists?
I have three pieces of advice:
1. Stop being afraid – experiment! If it sucks, try something else.
2. Make, make, and make more. Never stop creating!
3. And your art is not as precious as you think, joyously throw your work in the trash and start over.
Where can we find images of your work online?
My website is theaprildesigns.wordpress.com.
Thanks, April, for a delightful interview. The installation is incredible and can be viewed daily, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. The galleries will also be open to the public on SNC Day, Saturday, September 19, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.
