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Four artists make 'Four Corners'

By David Gonnerman '90
January 5, 2009

"Four Corners" is the title of the art show created by four recent St. Olaf graduates who have remained at the college for a fifth year as part of the art apprentice program. The show opens Jan. 9 and runs through Feb. 15 in the Virginia C. Groot Gallery in the Dittmann Center at St. Olaf College. The opening reception is Friday, Jan. 9, 7-9 p.m. at the gallery, with music provided by the group The Last Known Whereabouts. Artist talks will be Monday, Jan. 12, at 7 p.m. in the gallery. (The museum will be closed Jan. 31-Feb. 8.)

MilkweedByGalliAnya
Milkweed, a photograph by Anya Galli.
The exhibiting artists are Minnesotans Lisa Hey Skildum, mixed media; Molly Nelson, mixed media sculpture; and Alex Walton, mixed media sculpture; plus photographer Anya M. Galli, from Chico, Calif.

The art featured in Four Corners shows the work of four individuals who have chosen different artistic paths during their first year after graduation. "In a diverse range of ways we are reflecting on the experiences that make us who we are today as we move into the 'real world,'" says Galli. "The show resonates with a certain nostalgia as well as a press forward."

The apprentice program
Each year the St. Olaf Department of Art and Art History retains a handful of promising art majors who stay on campus for an additional fifth year at the college. The apprentices get studio space to prepare for two shows during the year. In addition, the apprentices assist with academic programs, including evening art critique sessions with current students.

"Having a space, financial support, and most importantly, some amazing mentors has helped me grow tremendously as an artist and a person," says Skildum. "I have gained a new confidence in my art-making ability -- a sort of fearless tenacity that asks, 'Why not?'"

Contact David Gonnerman at 507-786-3315 or gonnermd@stolaf.edu.