This was my first time at one of Union’s art exhibitions and only my second time to walk in the actual art gallery. It usually seems to be a kind of forbidden place for outsiders such as me, who took one art class in high school and who really knows nothing about “juxtaposition” or anything else art related. It used to be that, when I’d walk around the campus with my parents while I was growing up, I would look at the art pieces set up on the grounds and wonder what they could possibly mean. It wouldn’t be until a couple of years ago that I began to find art as an outward expression of the intricate depth of humanity that I believe reveals some of the mysteries of the great Artist, God, the Divine.
As I listened to Paige Ward, native of Frog Jump, Tennessee and 2010 graduate of Union University, I was intrigued by her ability to create pieces that represent her own personal journey with God. After participating in the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN, interning at the Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Aspen, CO, and then finishing graduate school at the University of Florida, this exhibition seemed to bring Ward full circle. As her journey as an artist began at Union, it had brought her back to Union, except now as a teacher sharing the progression of self through art. As she shared this progression, I was once again made aware of the miracle it is that as we ourselves are art, we ourselves create art. In art there is freedom, and I feel that Ward exemplifies that freedom and reflects some of the mysteries of God by her exploration of art in a unique and specific way.
Ward began her presentation by reading an excerpt of a story she had written about her childhood. She described a circle of trees she and her friends used to play in as “the oblivion.” She said, “oblivion was where we built clubhouses, all in the effort to make a place.”
This effort to make a place is the resounding theme in Ward’s work and relates to her personal journey as she has navigated learning new techniques and using new materials. Ward said, “We all have this longing to create a place,” and whether that place is a ceramic treehouse painted in a mirage of colors or 30 miniature houses in 50 concrete egg flats, God and the Christian religion is the foundation of that place. Ward has used her journey and search for a place as an example of her relationship with God. She has incorporated her faith with her work by acknowledging Christ as the firmest foundation for home.
Many of Ward’s works showcased in the exhibition included a concrete pillow. Ward explained that the pillow is a representation of God. She described it as “a permanent, unchanging being that provides rest.” This pillow, this symbol of the permanent place of rest that God provides, was the foundation of most pieces displayed in the gallery.
The largest piece in the room was a structure made from wooden stilts tied together with string. The structures were connected to each other in a descending row until one branched off and landed on one of these concrete pillows. Ward explained that, while the structures may be weak or wobbly, their foundation is strong.
At the time of the exhibition, I do not think I fully grasped the greatness of this symbol and its meaning to my life and my understanding of God. As someone who values fierce independence and pride in never needing help, I often do not allow myself rest. Now, as I reflect on the concrete pillow, I realize the incredible wisdom that Ward exemplified in using something as simple as a pillow to symbolize and reflect the satisfying rest that comes from God.
As I left the exhibition, I must admit, I was not inspired. However, after reflecting on Ward’s presentation and her art, I have been inspired. Ward is living out her faith by creating art that outwardly expresses her belief in God. It is a part of her journey, a journey that is seeking to discover more of the mysteries of God. She has found her place in the Divine, and she is expressing that place for the public eye through art.
“Human beings naturally seek stability as well as security and purpose in life. These are most often sought through the home, family relationships, friendships and establishing a successful career. We often place our life’s purpose within the structures and relationships that we create. In my life journey, I have also sought security in the external structures mentioned above. It has been through my internal search, however, that I have found a treasure where complete rest, peace and permanent security are offered. But, even still, I continue to seek and to build.” – Paige Ward, “The Weight of Glory”
Photos by Campbell Padgett
