ABERDEEN, S.D. – An exhibition by a Northern State University Art Department alum is now on display in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Gallery.
“Taking Root” by Becky Grismer will be up through Feb. 19. The exhibition addresses various themes involving the human condition. Grismer incorporates natural materials, such as tree bark, into her sculptures to communicate the similarities between people and trees. The organic, figural sculptures create a visual and spatial community within the gallery space.
The encaustic pieces include images of Grismer’s family, drawing upon locations her family settled following their immigration to the United States as Germans from Russia. Grismer digitally crops and edits the images, combining them with other imagery, such as tree stumps, creating an intricate layering of imagery on eco-dyed paper.
Grismer’s work engages multiple layers of metaphors, and meaning. The work displays Grismer’s deep reflection regarding human connection, familial ties, and the effect of people moving and migrating throughout history.
Born and raised in northeastern South Dakota, Grismer currently resides in Spearfish, working primarily as a sculptor. She will hold a Virtual Artist Talk via Zoom on Thursday, Feb. 4, beginning at 8 p.m. Additional information about the virtual event will be announced soon, and will be accessible on the NSU Art Department Facebook page.
About Northern State University
Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. Northern also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and, soon, an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $120 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.