Past Exhibits

Beneath Dual Skies

Dana Lynn Harper

Studio 23/The Arts Center is pleased to welcome Dana Lynn Harper to our 2023 Visiting Artist Program.  Dana Lynn Harper explores identity through cultural heritage, personal memories, and a connection to her present environment by using found objects. Her sculptural installations forge connections to past and present while memorializing the small moments collected in between.

Harper’s methods include paper mâché and paper clay, which are “often attributed to craft, as are many techniques mastered by women and people of color.” Harper says that “bringing these methods into gallery work validates and honors the invalidated artists that came before [her]” while she creates connections with distant cultures that are ingrained within her. 

During workshops lead by the artist at Studio 23 in September, participants will have a chance to learn Harper’s methods by creating “memory stones,” which will incorporate small objects with personal meaning. The stones created in the workshops will be incorporated into a piece of Harper’s artwork to share with the public. By sharing their memories and stories through "memory stones," participants will connect with each other and showcase the diversity of the Bay City community.

The mission of the Studio 23 Visiting Artist Program, through selection of an annual visiting artist, is to enhance the experience of art for our community via exposure to a greater diversity of artists, art media, and artistic styles. Exhibition and workshops are made possible through the C Joanne Grabinski Visiting Artist Fund.