When you think of books, a few images probably come to mind: libraries, dust or Young Adult (YA) novels with questionable content. When you think of architecture, you most likely envision detailed sketches and perfect geometric shapes. Now, throw all those images out the window and step into a world of innovation and creativity.

Earlier this year, on Jan. 20, the public got their first look and were amazed by the ingenuity of the featured artists at the Hand Art Center. Oscar Bluemner continues to steal the spotlight, along with a separate exhibit with artist/curator Jay Henderson. The exhibitions aren’t just pieces on a wall; they are living stories. Both exhibitions remain on view until March 21.

Looks Good on Paper: Second Edition

The exhibit, Looks Good on Paper: Second Edition, features artists from the Central Florida Print Makers and Book Arts Guild of Central Florida. Both groups embrace the individuality and unity that come with being an artist. You’ll see books made from wood, fabric, handmade paper, cards and more. There are books plastered on the wall, books that mimic the weather, books that act as canvases, and so much more. And that’s not all, the print makers’ expert craftsmanship have been showered with positive feedback. All of the pieces are phenomenal, yet each reflects the artist’s personal style.

Through a generous grant from the State of Florida, the Hand Art Center hosted free workshops in February taught by artists from the exhibit: Bronwynn Merritt, Catherine Cross Tsintzos, Fontaine Rodgers and Marie Patrick. The workshops had a successful turnout and many guests were able to step out of their comfort zone and experiment with a new art medium.

Notes on Anti-Mapping Architecture: Oscar Bluemner and Jay Henderson

In Notes on Anti-Mapping Architecture: Oscar Bluemner and Jay Henderson, Henderson explores the concept of architectural privacy in modern-day society as the guest curator. Nowadays, our data is more accessible than ever to commercial corporations and government organizations than ever. In his curator’s statement, Henderson says, “As the world has become more ‘discoverable,’ this has led to a lack of privacy surrounding our built environment, and begs for a new ‘anti-mapping architecture.’”

This exhibit prioritizes regaining power and autonomy from invasive and exploitative organizations through architecture meant to confuse data-tracking systems.

The exhibit is unique because it pairs a contemporary artist with modernist Oscar Bluemner, whose work is typically not presented alongside architectural installations. Bluemner was an architect before pursuing his passion for painting, and traces of architecture are evident in many of his works. The current selection of his artworks focuses on notes, sketches and structures captured in their primary form, embracing the fundamentals and offering insights into the artist’s observations.

While the Vera Bluemner Kouba Collection is a fixture at Stetson, some of the Bluemner works on display are being exhibited for the first time. The viewer can see how he experimented with form and color, and in connection to Henderson, captured abstracted structures.

If you visit: Exhibits are on view until March 21 at the Hand Art Center, open Tuesday-Friday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturdays: noon to 4 p.m., or by appointment.

Coming next: the Digital Arts and Studio Art Senior Exhibit, opening on April 14 with a public reception on April 16, 6-8 p.m.

-Dakota Williams ’28, Studio Art Major