D’Ann de Simone’s painting class took an opportunity to weave its way into the community - literally.
Members of the class, Studio Art 420, Painting, are just a few of many East Lansing residents who have participated in producing a room-sized tapestry project under the direction of local artist Nancy McRay.
The students met Monday in The Art Apartment, 210 Abbott Road, where their contributions were added to numerous materials and objects from community members already woven into the tapestry.
McRay said the community’s involvement with the project so far has been overwhelming.
“I have this huge sense of responsibility for what’s been given to me,” McRay said. “Some of (the contributions) will absolutely choke you up.”
Part of the project involves contributors recording the stories behind their personal items in journals, which are later copied and posted in the room. Items range from a guitar pick donated by an avid musician to a piece of cloth taken from a doll that’s been passed down through three generations.
Studio art senior Tyeshiea Johnson said she didn’t know what to expect before she saw the room, but quickly appreciated its value.
“It’s just a conversation, not just with the people in the room, but with everyone within the community,” she said. “I like the fact that it’s not perfect.
“Really, what’s perfect is whatever the artist wants it to be.”
Studio art junior Abby Deneau said she was interested in the weaving because she had never been exposed to that type of art.
“Something like this is really good because it’s different,” she said.
“It just seems like anything goes.”
De Simone, an associate professor of art at MSU, said she hoped the experience with weaving tapestry encourages students like Deneau to pursue a broader range of artistic possibilities.
“In 2001, it’s just not a question of doing painting on canvas,” she said. “It’s important to have awareness of community and responsibility to your community beyond what you personally do.”
Studio art junior Erica Karmeisool, who has been assisting McRay with the project a few days each week, said branching out from the university has been a focus for her.
“I had been wanting to get involved with community projects and working with other artists,” she said. “Especially in a town where students are coming in and out so frequently, it’s meant a lot to me as far as getting a feeling that this is actually a working community.”
McRay began the project Jan. 7 and will continue accepting help and materials until Feb. 4, when the room will be on display for about one week.
She said she hasn’t made any further plans because the project’s focus is not on its completion. The goal is to cover three walls and the ceiling of the room, but it’s not detrimental, McRay said.
“I really do want to focus on the fact that the artwork is in the act,” she said. “And I don’t think the people would feel as free in telling their stories if they knew (the tapestry) was going up somewhere.”
Those interested in weaving a part of their lives into the tapestry or donating items can stop by The Art Apartment weekdays between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. or weekends between noon and 4 p.m.
For more information, call McRay at 930-1198 or visit www.McRayWeaving.com.
