I put a spell on you
Mixed media show Magic and Science makes room for the mystical
by Ashley opheim
By employing scientific theories in art, people are making art that is magical,” says Stephanie Bokenfohr, curator of Art Matters show Magic and Science, pictured here with artist Amy Ball. Magic and Science kicked off with a vernissage at Galerie Yergeau
PHOTOS ASHLEY OPHEIM
Has anyone else noticed the buzz of magic in the air—the feeling that humankind is on the brink of discovering something unknown, an unimaginable secret of the universe?
If you have, you’re not alone.
Curator Stephanie Bokenfohr promises her Art Matters show Magic and Science will “amaze and haunt you.”
“Originally, I was just really inspired by objects that have lenses,” Bokenfohr says of the show’s inspiration. “Anything from film projectors to cameras, kaleidoscopes and telescopes. The images these objects create are very stunning.”
The curator’s fascination with lenses evolved into a mixed media showcase that opens up a space for mystical discussion.
Magic and Science is one of Art Matters’ largest shows, including artwork by 18 Concordia students. Viewers can expect interdisciplinary works including installations, sculptures and two-dimensional works such as drawings and photographs.
“Together, this alchemy of different disciplines will create a real space of awe-striking magicalness,” says Bokenfohr.
She admits she was surprised by the overwhelming interest in her show. Dozens of artists were interested in providing installations.
“I think it’s awesome how students in fine arts are so interested in magic—it’s really exciting,” Bokenfohr says. “I didn’t know that people were thinking the same things I was.”
Science and technology are constantly breaking new ground for human understanding. Magic and Science argues, however, that the more we understand about the world, the more we realize we have yet to discover. That’s where, explains Neal Moignard, “magic comes in.”
“Seeing something you don’t understand is magic,” says Moignard, whose collaborative piece “Whorl” is featured in the show. “Magic is the act of accepting something that is in front of your eyes without understanding it.”
Bokenfohr says she thinks art’s fascination with magic is a result of artists’ resources. Technology is allowing magic a concrete space in which to exist.
“By employing scientific theories in art, people are making art that is magical,” she says, “so it’s almost using art to explore a scientific theory.”
Artist Amy Ball, who has an installation in Magic and Science, says magic is “something that takes you back to that feeling you felt when you genuinely thought you saw magic when you were young—that feeling of being like, wow!”
“Magic can be found in objects and moments that inspire a sense of wonder,” adds Brianna Oversby, who has also provided an installation created in collaboration with fellow student Katerina Lagasse.
The beauty of magic may be in its varying definition. Although it means something different to everyone, everyone can agree that magic is a feeling worth experiencing.
“I think that, on an esthetic level,” says Bokenfohr, “the materials that look magical are immaculately beautiful.”
Magic and Science is at Galerie Yergeau (2060 Joly Ave.) until March 19.
The Link Volume 31 Issue 01