March 19 – 29
Opening Reception: Thursday, March 20, 5-8pm, Performance at 7:30pm
Location: Backspace Gallery, Art Lofts, 111 N Frances St, Madison, WI
This exhibition is a collection of works that concerns the mechanisms that shape the internal mental spaces we all hold: the spirit, the mind, the internal, the self. Whatever label we give this ephemeral space it is beyond the physical realm. These mechanisms are shaped by the phenomena around us and the naturalistic elements of the human body, i.e. nature vs nurture. The word mechanism strikes an interesting parallel to this idea. Being defined simultaneously as, a system of parts working together in a machine, as a natural or established process by which something takes place or is brought about. As well as the doctrine that all natural phenomena, including life and thought, allow mechanical explanation by physics and chemistry.
The installations feature sculpture, sound, and light that creates experiences that alter our perspective. Following an intuitive path of research in science, engineering, psychology, and physical processes, Burk gains a deeper understanding of both himself and the world around us by pursuing an affective response within himself. By transmuting his explorations of self, identity, judgment, and support into tangible forms, he creates highly effective experiences that reflect the phenomena of his mind. He deciphers the patterns and activations that are continuously at work, questioning whether they are natural or constructed. This inquiry vicariously prompts viewers to examine their own experiences and perspectives, fostering commonality, visibility, and supporting the destigmatization of mental health issues.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison Art MFA Qualifier Exhibition season continues with Henry Burk’s art exhibition. The qualifier solo exhibitions are presented by the graduate students during their fourth semester as the evaluation review of their creative work to qualify for advancement in the MFA program. Come view the work and research by our newest cohort of developing artists!