Year of Award

2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Degree Name

Art

Department or School/College

School of Visual and Media Arts

Committee Chair

Kevin Bell

Commitee Members

Cathryn Mallory Michael Musick Matthew Hamon

Publisher

University of Montana

Subject Categories

Interactive Arts | Interdisciplinary Arts and Media | Painting

Abstract

Luminous Threshold is an interactive experience exploring the liminal transition between the viewer and ambiguous spaces. My thesis exhibition incorporates two paintings, one continuous pulsing light structure, two sound-activated light structures, and a black cube that is perceived to be inserted through the gallery wall. The paintings and forms explore liminality within a two-dimensional space, while the light pieces create an ephemeral viewer- participation experience. Liminality, defined by Arnold Van Gennep and Victor Turner, is one of three stages in life an individual will go through. It is considered a Rite of Passage or Threshold and is the ambiguous transitional stage where anything can happen. I focus on the ambiguity and transition into the liminal state, drawing inspiration from Minimalist artists, the Light, and Space movement, and contemporary artists including Donald Judd, Robert Morris, James Turrell, Larry Bell, Olafur Eliasson, and Anish Kapoor. Similarly, I am interested in using alternative materials, technology, and manipulated spaces to create a unique experience for the viewer. Both light and silence have physiological and mental effects on the human mood, circadian rhythm, and vision. With the combined benefits of light and silence, Luminous Threshold brings awareness of our present liminal space.

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© Copyright 2021 Peggy Wen