jade witzel

Join us for the opening reception on April 13, 5 – 7 pm.
The show will run April 5 – 14.

The Center for the Arts’ Kinder Padon Gallery has selected Western Colorado University alumni Jade Witzel’s BFA show “Unraveling”, which revolves around mental health, for a two week pop-up show in April. Witzel creates large and small scale pieces using a hybrid of fabric, embroidery, gouache, and other mixed media to explore how anxiety, depression, and other difficult mental health topics are physically manifested in hand gestures during interviews and discussions she has conducted while researching her show. This exhibit boasts expansive installation works throughout the gallery space and accessible priced studies, all works will be available online at kinderpadongallery.org.

Please join us on April 13 from 5 – 7 pm for her opening reception and to be immersed in her unique, touching, and important exhibit alongside the valley’s mental health organizations to create a safe space to discuss hard topics and build community advocacy and awareness.

 

Artist Biography

I am a recent Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate of Western Colorado University where I discovered the rising need for mental health awareness.  My goal throughout my undergraduate career was to merge the field of psychology and art in order to reach a wider audience for these important topics to be brought to light.  Following my undergraduate degree, I am looking to continue my education by pursuing a Masters in Art Therapy.  

I use art to process personal experiences, and have recently discovered that sharing those feelings and the art that results from them has aided in creating an open conversation and a safe space between myself and those around me. I aim to destigmatize this type of dialogue which can encourage people to speak up when help is needed.

 

Artist Statement

There is a certain loss in connection through social norms.  Conversations often begin with a dialogue that is expected:  

“How are you?”
“I’m good! How are you?”
“Good!” 

How often does this question get answered truthfully?  How many times have we asked others expecting a genuine response.

In my artwork, volunteers are interviewed and asked the question, “How are you doing, really?” Participants were selected based on my relationship with the individual; first with those I know well, and then with acquaintances.  With the knowledge that they are free to answer anonymously and openly, participants’ answers inspire each painting and installation.  This exhibition questions the typically expected script and serves as a reminder to take a moment and check in with those around you.  

As each interview is unique, differences are reflected in the chosen medium. Some call for bright colors and patterns, while others demand textiles that move away from the confinement of the canvas.  The materials make it known that the feelings explored in the pieces are loud and need to be heard.  I use the medium as a way to place myself into the perspective of the volunteer and relate to what that individual is experiencing.

I am inspired by hands due to the nature of how they often communicate feelings. We all subconsciously share how we’re feeling through our body language, and I use this in my artwork to ignite connection between myself, the art, and the viewer.