Client: U W Parkside

Overview

The University of WI Parkside Student Union expansion includes stained glass windows in the new Dining Hall. With an overall size of 11' x 31' the piece becomes a dynamic colorful focal point within the Student Union building.

Goals

The U W Parkside students and faculty come from the regional area along with a wide range of international countries. The art committee desired an artwork that was abstract and welcoming to the entire student population. The design is a vortex of vibrant color spiraling and expanding into infinity. Around the perimeter of the glass design are the sandblasted words “Share your knowledge” in a multitude of different languages and braille. The work is fabricated with fired airbrush and hand painted vitreous enamels for a permanent combination of translucent and opaque color to allow light into the dining hall, yet obstruct the parking lot on the exterior of building.

Process

The WI Art Program personnel oversaw the art project. I attended meetings with University staff, students, contractor, interior designer and architectural teams to discuss and insure the success of the installation.