What is An American ? a blog on american studies

  Spectrum of Light and Spirit  UMBC's Center for Art Design and Visual Culture is located within the fine arts building. The center is near the Performing Arts and Humanities Building and the Engineering Building. CADVC has been a part of UMBC since 1989 as the Fine arts gallery before renaming in 2003. Upon entering, you are greeted by students of the University. The current exhibition is from Oletha DeVane and is called Spectrum of Light and Spirit. The gallery comprises dozens of colorful works that feel the entirety of the space. Each artwork feels like the characters are breaking through the canvas. Additionally, all the colors are vibrant and draw your attention to the elements used to create the piece. The artwork on display showcases work over five decades and shows elements of the places she's traveled to in that time. The gallery makes great use of space to allow the focus to be solely the artwork. Visitors are able to easily navigate the space, but there is not so ...

 UMBC Library Gallery : Formations  The UMBC library consistently hosts exhibitioners' work to showcase the different artworks. Currently, the University is showcasing the work of Aaron Siskind, who is known as a pioneering figure of photography during the 20th century. Mr.Siskind's work is a part of the UMBC photography collections and highlights his work through the 1930s - 1960s. The collection comprises 55 of Siskind's portfolios for students and guests to explore his work. The collection is on display until March 12th, 2023. The University does a fantastic job of lighting each piece so that you see the best quality of each photograph. With overall muted lighting, the attention when you first enter the gallery is the red wall that details the exhibition and the title of Formations. One criticism I have regarding the gallery is the layout of the space. There is a lot of empty space where there needs to be an artwork. If the University could place pieces within the space,...