Erika Port- Touching Grass (MFA Thesis Exhibition) Artist Talk
Date & Time: March 21, 2025 from 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Event Sponsors:
School of Visual Arts
Location: Visual Arts Building- Zoller Gallery
Admission Type: Free, no registration or ticket required
"Touching Grass" explores themes of identity, healing, and renewal through the lens of personal experience. This exhibition reflects on the lasting impact of racism, self-doubt, and the complexities of navigating a mixed-race identity. Influenced by the kawaii aesthetic, my work utilizes animal sculptures to examine these challenges while offering a sense of playfulness and accessibility.
Through subtle gestures and carefully crafted forms, the sculptures reveal an underlying tension between vulnerability and resilience. This body of work represents a process of moving forward, acknowledging past experiences while making space for joy, connection, and self-acceptance. "Touching Grass" marks a turning point for myself—one of reflection, release, and growth.