New work by artist-in-residence India Solomon is on display at the Olin Health Center. Located on the 2nd floor, Heal YOU First is acrylic paint on two custom-shaped, upholstered canvas panels mimicking the signature abstract shapes that characterize Solomon's work. This piece channels feelings of care, comfort, and support, having emerged from several engagements with students and staff engaged in caregiving work across multiple campus programs. This is Solomon’s second work for MSU.
“I wanted to create open space for [caregivers] to show up for themselves,” said Solomon. “By nature of the work, caregivers are taught to be strong. This process was about letting their guard down and taking the time to be human.” Solomon worked with three intimate groups of students and staff on campus as each group member painted small-scale, personal works, around 20 individuals. Heal YOU First takes inspiration from these works, which centered on questions of joy, freedom, and empowerment, fostering universal creativity through the art of abstraction.
Solomon unveiled Thriving Affirmations for MSU last year. Though both projects share similar origin in group work, India approached this work as a totally independent piece. In her second year of residency at MSU, Solomon decided not to sketch an early design, opting for a totally fluid design, trusting herself and the process to create the final work. “I wanted the process to be reflected in the final work,” Solomon says of her design.
“This year I want people to let go of rules and roles. To feel free.”
