In a climate of global war and sharpening socio-economic and
political division, Peace Begins Here is an unabashed invitation
to hope. The exhibition explores peace in all its
dimensions-challenging the cynicism, apathy, ignorance and
self-indulgence within us all. By juxtaposing practical ideas
with thought-provoking illustration, Peace Begins Here compels
viewers to pause, to look more deeply, and to dare each of us to
be part of the solution.
Ray Materson’s miniature embroideries are a triumph of the
impossible: that a man could excel at an overwhelmingly female
art form; that an addict and felon could find redemption and
great success in stitching; that a self-taught artist could make
it big in the art world, going against the prevailing dictum that
bigger is better; that the handmade could be greatly valued in
the age of the computer; and that something so beautiful could be
fashioned from old socks.
This annual installation, timed to coincide with University
Picnic Day, is a lively survey of student talent and creativity
that reflects the multi-disciplinary breadth of the Design
Program’s course work.
Recent contributions to the Design Collection from the late
Professor Daniel Crowley demonstrate the creativity and beauty of
ethnic textile traditions. These extraordinary objects collected
during his many expeditions to regions of Africa, South America
and Asia represent the aesthetic attitudes and techniques that
continue to influence contemporary design and living.
