The Kennesaw State University Print Club sponsored an opportunity for students to carve wooden blocks as a collaborative art project Feb. 24 that will be displayed around campus.
The event, called the KSU Print Club Block Party, allowed students to carve designs on relief blocks created from medium density fiberboard. The KSU Print Club worked with the Zuckerman Museum of Art in conjunction with its new exhibit, Art Aids America.
Adjoa Johnson, a sophomore majoring in geography, Johnson thought the event was a unique outlet for students’ creativity.
“It was a new experience and the end result of my carving was really cool,” she said.
No prior experience was required and all necessary tools were provided. Those new to the craft were taught how to carve and given plenty of chances to practice before carving their final piece.
Students could also make designs that will be put on large puzzle pieces measuring 10 inches long, 12 inches wide each. The subject of each puzzle piece will be a topic about which that student wants to increase awareness. According to Valeria Dibble, KSU Print Club adviser, this lets students channel their passion about a subject into activism.
“We hope that this engagement in the art process by the campus community will increase their awareness of the issues we are researching, increase their appreciation of the art process and deepen their involvement as advocates,” Dibble said.
Advanced students who researched activism and advocacy will be going to the National Conference of Undergraduate Research in Asheville, South Carolina in April.
Chris Neuenschwander, an alumnus who specializes in wood-cut relief printing, also had many handmade display pieces for sell. Neuenschwander graduated in 2011 with concentrations of print making and drawing and painting. He assisted with hosting the event and helping students carve.
Offering free food and drinks again, the KSU Print Club will host the next carving session March 24 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. All of the blocks will be printed in April at the Spring Arts Festival on campus.
