Coronavirus took final show from Columbus artists, but now their art is on display for all
A new public art project in Columbus celebrates the work of several emerging artists while providing a safe environment for people to view the pieces.
The Do Good Fund, in cooperation with Columbus State University’s Department of Art and Dragonfly Trails, is presenting “Six Feet Apart” to showcase ideas by CSU’s graduating Bachelor of Fine Arts candidates. Their work is displayed on a concrete wall on the Chattahoochee Riverwalk between the Powerhouse and the Frank K. Martin Pedestrian Bridge.
Support from The W. C. Bradley Company and D&S Sign Company also made the project possible.
The show launched May 1 and is set to close July 31.
CSU’s graduating BFA candidates lost their chance for a traditional final exhibition in the school’s Illges Gallery because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Vanessa Bischoff, William Lytton, Sydney Flatt, Dalton Tanner Newbend, Emily Williams, Joshua Newbend and Jade Tamaski are the participating artists.
Newbend said the show is a creative solution during difficult times.
“People run by, walk by, there’s been bikers that have gone by and they see it, and they’re exposed to the artwork,” Newbend said. “It’s much like having the artwork on Broadway. It’s more accessible. People are being introduced to more artwork in their daily lives.”
“When all of this started we were struggling to stay motivated and keep working,” said Tamaski. “I’m so grateful that we can still get our work out there and people are still able to enjoy it right now.”
Chris Whittey, the Alan F. Rothschild Distinguished Chair of Art at CSU, said they teach more than the technical and aesthetic components of art. Whittey said students are also taught discipline, work ethic, integrity and persistence, skills that are transferable and helpful throughout life.
“Artists have to be very, very persistent,” Whittey said. “It’s almost as if life wants to throw things in your way to stop you from making work. So I think this is a real big takeaway for all of us that no matter what, including a pandemic, bring it on we’re going to get the work out there.”
