Tucked away in Andover, New Hampshire, Proctor might seem an unlikely hub for the arts. Under the guidance of Art Curator Molly Leith, several buildings across campus transform into ever-rotating gallery spaces, providing community members with opportunities for creative inspiration.
From studio art classes to history and social science discussions, physical art provides tangible connections to the world beyond our campus, providing students with exposure to diverse perspectives and global issues. We are also reminded of the words of artist Jozimar Matimano, whose work was featured on our campus in 2022: "I see fine art as a tool that could spark something in one's life that could change the course of history." It is our hope that these exhibits, from contemporary art to historical exhibitions on figures like Frederick Douglass, will spark curiosity and act as catalysts for discussion and critical thinking. Read more about the latest exhibits on display on Proctor’s campus in the information that follows.
Liliana Folta (Lovejoy Library, Through December 2024)
The Lovejoy Library welcomes the thought-provoking work of Liliana Folta, an Argentinian artist whose pieces are inspired by her time living in different parts of the world and absorbing different cultural perspectives, as well as her deep concern for global environmental issues. Folta was born in Argentina and has lived in Puerto Rico, the U.S., and Germany. Her surrealistic approach tackles societal challenges and explores the complex relationship between humans and the planet's ecosystem.
Using a variety of media, including installation, ceramic, sculpture, mixed media, and painting, Folta creates pieces that are both visually striking and conceptually rich. Her creative process is partly spontaneous, drawing inspiration from current events and subconscious experiences accumulated throughout her life. Folta states, "[My work is] my way to stimulate positive changes and raise awareness of environmental justice." This exhibit serves as a powerful reminder of our impact on the world around us, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own relationship with our communities and the environment.
Artist Workshops and Reception with Liliana Folta (October 24-25)
Liliana Folta will lead student workshops during A, B, and C blocks on October 24th (and D block on October 25th), focusing on collage work and using maps inspired by her “Aerial View” series. We will host a reception with Liliana in the Library at 5:30 PM on October 24th, offering our community a chance to meet the artist and discuss her work. All are welcome.
Angelique Luro (Brown Dining Commons, Through October 2024)
The Brown Dining Commons gallery currently hosts the work of Angelique Luro, a self-taught artist deeply rooted in the coast of Maine. Luro describes her artistic process as "an intuitive, curious exploration." Her work is deeply influenced by her life on a small farm and her connection to the Maine coastline. "I draw from its energy and beauty as well as my life on our small farm," she explains. "I am passionate about creating pieces that are authentic to my experience, whether it be from a walk along the beach or the joy I feel when I walk into the barn each morning."
Her creative journey often takes unexpected turns. "Often times I begin in one direction and land in quite another," Luro shares. She starts each piece with a playful sense of humor and freedom, meandering around until she feels "something" in the work that captures her interest. From there, she hones in on the final composition and fine-tunes the details. For Luro, it is important to accurately depict the sensation of a particular moment, and she achieves this through her masterful use of color, texture, and design. As a member of the NH Artist Association and both York and Kittery art associations, Luro brings a wealth of regional artistic perspective to our community.
Frederick Douglass (Hobbs Classroom, Through October 9, 2024)
Gilder Lehrman's six-panel exhibit, "Frederick Douglass: Advocate for Equality," is now on display in the Hobbs Classroom on the top floor of the Fowler Learning Center. This powerful exhibit, underwritten jointly by the English and Fine Arts departments, offers a chronological journey through the life and impact of one of America's most influential figures. Frederick Douglass, who lived from the antebellum period into the Jim Crow era, was more than just an escaped slave turned abolitionist speaker and writer. He was the most photographed American of the 19th century and a tireless advocate for human rights.
This exhibit provides a visual narrative of Douglass' life, complementing the study of his works in our curriculum, particularly in the AP English Language & Composition course. John Bouton from our English Department reflects, “This exhibit amplifies our introduction to Douglass' rhetoric, visual literacy, and his education (in addition to his humanity!).”
Looking Ahead: 2025 Exhibits
Rebecca McGee Tuck: Along the Wrack Line (January 2025)
As we move into the new year, the Lovejoy Library will showcase the work of Rebecca McGee Tuck, a Massachusetts-based found object fiber sculptor and ocean activist. Her collection, "Along the Wrack-Line," explores the delicate balance between humans and nature. Tuck's background, which includes studies at MassArt and Design, exhibitions in galleries throughout the Northeast, and numerous artist residencies throughout Massachusetts, promises to bring a unique perspective to our community.
Inkpa Mani: Portraits and Ledger Art (Fall 2025)
In the fall of 2025, we're honored to present the work of Inkpa Mani, an Indigenous Mexican/American artist currently pursuing his MFA at Yale University. Mani's portraits and ledger art offer a powerful exploration of Native American history and contemporary identity. His work in ledger art, a form deeply rooted in the sociopolitical context of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, provides a fascinating glimpse into the resilience and creativity of Native peoples in the face of displacement and cultural upheaval.
For more information about our art exhibits or to arrange a visit, please contact Molly Leith.
- Arts