The very first thing you notice walking into The Pieces of Us interactive art show is the warm welcome you receive and the vibrant atmosphere of the bright colors, along with the opening welcome of art students. Next, you notice all the unique pieces stepping foot into the art gallery and the beaming lights that further captivate the artwork that viewers see. 

The show, set up in Westby, took place on Jan. 23, 2025. 

“By focusing on abstracted light and shadow, I hope to inspire viewers to think about their perception and appreciate the unnoticed details that exist in everyday life,” said artist Emily Szemiot. 

The artwork allows the audience to become vulnerable or even to awaken through a new perspective on life through what they are viewing. This approach allows the audience to become further inspired by the artist’s pieces.

In return, the audience is able to have their own perception and interpretation of these distinctive pieces. Even on reminiscing through a fond memory of the past. As the variety of colors is seen, unlocking one’s inner creativity and appreciation for art. The Pieces of Us art show’s layout guides the audience to a cozy atmosphere.

Amidst the captivating sites, the viewers are able to see mixed media from charcoal, paints, paper, acrylics, and ceramics. As visitors explore the show, they will encounter various types of artwork and a diverse range of pieces. When viewing, there is a great sense of hard work that each artist put into their pieces.

The cross-lighting is vital to the pieces because it properly shows the extent of colors allowing viewers to appreciate the intricate and vivid details. The Pieces Of Us Art Gallery allows the audience a rather immersive experience that allows them to have an emotional connection and a sense of inspiration. Along with the subtle background music that leaves the audience with a relaxed ambiance, it enhances the audience to have a more heartfelt connection with the artwork. The background music has a low rhythm that encourages creativity and imagination for the viewer to become more aware of the artwork.

 “I want the viewer to feel the care and patience, in both the piece and the title, that it’s okay to take that time,” said artist Emily Klassen. 

As it is especially vital for the viewers and the audience members the artist wishes to reach to be able to have certain emotions towards their artwork.

Furthermore, the show brings out many different emotions in the viewers as the artists convey and excel in all these aspects. Allowing audience members to embrace their inner creativity,  emotional connections, a deeper connection to the arts, human interaction, and further inspiration. The Pieces of Us Art show served as a positive community for not just art lovers, but for all who appreciate art near Rowan University.

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