83 - SEARCHING FOR LIGHT

SEARCHING FOR LIGHT

15 ¼ x 10 ¾ inches

(Stairwell of Morrill Hall)

During my freshman year at UNL, the art department was located in the dark and dreary Morrill Hall. It emitted strange, musty odors and did nothing to inspire my creativity. Classes were held on the north side of the third floor; the dark rooms felt heavy. I longed for the southern sunrays that had permeated our farmhouse. When classes were finished for the day, I rushed to the stairwell. Sun flooded through this west window as I left the building. My heaviness vanished in the penetrating, warm light. I dreaded the prospect of four more years in this dark building.

Upon reflection, even then, the contrast between dark and light was a tangible struggle that I could see and feel. As I became more aware, I learned that it was necessary to experience the dark before I could fully appreciate the light.

Contrasting light and dark now defines my art and a lifetime spiritual journey.