Sculptors On Campus
Bridging the Gap
More than twenty years ago, I began teaching sculpture at CSUB. Coming from U.S.C., I was spoiled by the quantity of public sculptures Los Angeles had to view. I was inspired to bring sculpture to California State University, Bakersfield because the quantity was scarce in the "80's". Although the artwork has sparked many discussions, the interaction with the artists has proved to be even more valuable. The red tape would have been too much for a project like this on a bigger campus, but the CSUB administration has been amenable.
The artists have been fascinating to work with, and the experience has been enriching for those involved. As the program has gained notoriety, more of the recent artists have come from other countries including Germany, Zimbabwe, Canada, and Korea. Each year the students and faculty look at proposed projects and select an artist to work with the students for the following spring. Students then work with the artist on all aspects of the project including concept, selecting a site, collecting materials, fabrication, and installation. Concepts and materials have varied greatly over the years including found objects, wood from trees on campus, steel from local industries, and reflections on campus ponds.
If you are interested in helping with the selection process (in November) call and leave a message at extension 3095. If you’d like to work with the visiting sculptor any spring quarter, sign up for a unit, or just come help. It is bound to be a unique experience!
Joyce Kohl, Professor of Fine Arts
email: jkohl@csub.edu
phone: 661-664-3095