Dyson engaged students and faculty in a powerful discussion on the transformative role of art in shaping the future
By ALMA CULVERWELL — city@theaggie.org
The California Studio: Manetti Shrem Artist Residencies in the Maria Manetti Shrem Museum recently hosted Torkwase Dyson for an artist talk on Feb. 27 at Wright Hall.
Dyson, a Chicago native, is known for her work across multiple mediums, including painting, drawing and sculpture. Her abstract works explore the continuity between ecology, infrastructure and architecture while addressing themes of human geography and the history of Black spatial liberation strategies.
Throughout her career, Dyson has grappled with the ways in which space is perceived, imagined and negotiated. Her research and creative practice confront issues of environmental liberation and envision paths toward a more equitable future.
Dyson’s academic background includes studying sociology and social work at Tougaloo College in Mississippi, followed by a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Master of Fine Arts in painting from the Yale School of Art.
Katie Grube, curator and program manager for The California Studio: Manetti Shrem Residencies, explained a few details behind planning the event.
“Torkwase Dyson visited UC Davis as a ‘spotlight’ artist in The California Studio: Manetti Shrem Artist Residencies, a visiting artist program in the Department of Art and Art Studio,” Grube said. “The department invites three ‘spotlight’ artists and curators annually. One comes each quarter and is on campus for about a week. The California Studio also brings two visiting professors every year. One professor comes in fall quarter and one comes in spring quarter.”
These artist residencies are integral to the UC Davis community, providing students with valuable opportunities to engage with accomplished artists and curators from diverse fields. Dyson’s visit was a highlight of this year’s program, sparking dynamic conversations about the relationship between art, environment and social justice.
The event allowed attendees to hear firsthand from Dyson about her creative process and the ideas that drive her work. Her ability to bridge academic disciplines and artistic expression has made her a vital voice in conversations around social equity, environmentalism and the transformative potential of art.
Jamal Gunn-Becker, a second-year graduate student in the art studio program, explained his thoughts on the event.
“The event was very powerful and informative to watch,” Gunn-Becker said. “Dyson’s insights into art as a catalyst for social change and environmental action not only inspire, but challenge us to rethink our role as artists in shaping the future.”
The California Studio: Manetti Shrem Artist Residency program continues to foster an environment of creativity and cross-disciplinary engagement, bringing some of the most innovative artists and scholars to campus each year.
“In spring quarter, artists Marie Lorenz and Byron Kim will be in residence,” Grube said. “Marie Lorenz will be a visiting professor in art studio. Byron Kim will be on campus during the week of April 21.”
Marie Lorenz is scheduled to give a talk on Thursday, April 10, and Byron Kim is scheduled to give one on Thursday, April 24. Both talks will be from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Manetti Shrem Museum.
Written by: Alma Culverwell — city@theaggie.org
