(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- Studio Montclair, Inc., in partnership with the Department of Art and Design at Montclair State University, is pleased to present “Launchpad,” a juried exhibition featuring the thesis work of select graduating students of the Department that will be on display from May 4-20, 2023. Launchpad will showcase a range of works from the Visual Arts, Visual Communication Design, Fashion Design & Merchandising, and Product Design programs. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience a compelling sampling of the talent of Montclair State University students showing 2D works that explore a diverse range of themes. These thought-provoking artworks visually communicate cultural issues and modern concepts.
“The Department of Art and Design is thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with Studio Montclair for this exhibition of student work. It has been a delight to work with the members and staff at SMI, and to form a meaningful connection with such a longstanding and important leader in the cultural conversation of Montclair. I look forward to the inclusion of our students’ voices in that conversation, and to hopefully expanding our relationships and building deeper connections between our communities.” -- Christopher Kaczmarek, Chair, Department of Art and Design, Montclair State University
“Studio Montclair has always believed in the importance of collaboration, partnerships, and community and we are delighted to welcome Montclair State University into our main gallery at 127 Bloomfield Avenue for their thesis show, "Launchpad", an exhibition of student thesis work.
We can't wait to see what these talented artists have been creating and can now share with the entire Montclair community and beyond!" -- Phoebe Pollinger, SMI Board Member and past President
Launchpad will run from May 4th to May 20th. The opening reception will take place on Wednesday, May 10th from 6:00pm-9:00pm. Visitors are welcome to attend and enjoy the artwork, meet the artists, and celebrate the exhibition with some light refreshments. The Gallery is open Wednesday through Sundays, 1:00pm – 5:00pm (Check their website for updates)
Admission to the exhibition is free and open to the public. Studio Montclair is committed to providing access to the arts for all with the hopes that this exhibition will inspire and engage visitors from all backgrounds.
Participating Artists: The graduating students of MSU, Department of Art and Design: Animation & Illustration, Fashion Design & Merchandising, Product Design, Visual Arts, and Visual Communication Design.
Art Talks:
Thursday, May 11, 6:00pm – 7:00pm: “The Line Behind Us” with Christopher Kaczmarek, Chair, Dept. of Art and Design, MSU: Hear about the unexpected evolution of Kaczmarek’s practice from interactive installations to an engagement with the idea of walking as a praxis for creating aesthetic experiences. He will draw a line of connection that articulates associations both intended and discovered along the way.
Tuesday, May 16, 6:00pm – 7:00pm: “Industrial Design, Its Role in Society and Industry” presented by Denis Feigler, Associate Professor, Director of Product Design, Dept. of Art and Design, MSU: Emotional design is a complex approach to product design. It involves visceral design, behavioral design, and reflective design. All these levels combine together to form an effective and impactful design that offers a delightful experience to users. In this presentation we will look at various segments of industry and examine their products through the lens of design semiotics as they target the emotions of their users.
Studio Montclair is celebrating 25 years as an inclusive, nationwide non-profit organization of exhibiting, professional, and emerging artists and others interested in the visual arts. The mission of the organization is to promote culture, education, equality, and tolerance through art. Studio Montclair is committed to diversity at every level. Founded in 1997, the organization includes over 500 members. Visit Studio Montclair’s flagship gallery (Studio Montclair Gallery), Leach Gallery, or virtual exhibit website to view and purchase contemporary art. Find out more about classes at SMI’s Art Academy at www.studiomontclair.org/education.
