U of L exhibit explores the world of coal inspired by Lethbridge’s history
Anew exhibit at the University of Lethbridge Art Gallery explores the relationship of Lethbridge and coal, as well as the world that coal exists in beneath our feet.
“To Dwell in Pitch Black Pearls” is the first Canadian solo exhibit by Amsterdam artist Karen Van Dam. It is unique in that it is inspired by the history of Lethbridge and built in the art gallery for a local audience.
The exhibit is part of the gallery’s “You Are Here” series and is the first international exhibit for the gallery.
Van Dam visited Lethbridge on two research trips and was inspired by the history of coal deposits and how the deep black colour of coal appeals visually.
She spent time in the Galt Museum archives looking at maps of coal deposits and mines, and that imagery inspired her, prompting her to think about coal in different visual ways. She also spent time in the Crowsnest Pass.
“The coal is like a pearl for Lethbridge,” Van Dam said. “These pearls of coal are very important to the economy, and to set up the city.”
“‘To Dwell in Pitch Black Pearls’ offers Karen’s perspective on our location, stuff that we take for granted, that we’ve grown up seeing,” stated curator Josephine Mills in a news release. “It shifts the perspective, which is part of the idea behind the ‘You Are Here’ series.”
The exhibit features a number of pictures drawn using coal. The main installation is an immersive environment with many black “pearls” hanging from the ceiling and murky amber lighting.
The effect is similar to being under water, where pearls would be found — save for the colour scheme nodding to coal.
She said the effect of being inside the installation is intentional.
Perception of the exhibit will also change depending on the viewers themselves. Attending as part of a group might be different than being alone, for example.
“I hope it comes into you,” she said. “And it makes a kind of other world.”
That world is underground, a place where there is often much happening than many people not might realize.
“I hope it makes a new environment, and people can address their own silence,” Van Dam said.
As for construction of the space, Van Dam said she did not know what the final form of the installation would be until she arrived and began building it. There were a number of adjustments made along the way.
“(Changes) happen a lot during installation,” she said. “It is growing under my hands, and I never knew how it ends.”
The exhibition opened in the main gallery, Level 6 University Centre for the Arts, Thursday, and runs until Jan. 4.
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