Assignment 1

Art around Boston University

Visual Entanglements

These pieces hang in a well-lit and observable area. They add to the scientific aura of the building, and also add a splash of color to an otherwise relatively plain area.

Vine

This piece seems to blend nature with society or industry, and is pretty fascinating to observe. Although somewhat basic, it is nonetheless an interesting piece (and one that can thankfully be easily observed by many students)

Mimetic Evolution

These images are another example of interesting and attractive BU art that is unfortunately neglected. Placed alongside advertisements and with a distracting glare, the images are hard to make out. Yet, when one takes the time to notice them, they are easily recognized attractive, interesting representations of man’s physical and mental development.

Characters of BU

Although these images may easily go unnoticed, they do succeed in representing the diversity of the BU student body. Many ethnicities and hobbies are represented, reflecting BU’s heterogeneous blend of attendees.

Aequorea Victoria

This work is aesthetically pleasing. Its soft hues and single subject are gentle and soothing. Like other pieces in the Photonic Center though, it is difficult to locate. The only real shortcoming of observing this piece is its location  

The Book of Hours

After a long, grueling quest through the vast maze known as the Photonics Center, Brent and I discovered the elusive Book of Hours. The piece is fitting for its environment–- it makes excellent use of light to create a visually appealing display, but its lack of accessibility to the majority of students and passers-by make it an almost useless piece on the campus.

Photonics Center Paintings

These two paintings in the Photonics Center complement each other, and fit well into their environment with their simple yet elegant use of light and color.

Polly’s Tree

Polly’s Tree is a piece that captures the solemn mood of Sylvia Plath. Unfortunately, the artwork’s location hides it from most observers. This work could be much better appreciated for its tone and imagery in a different, more frequented location.

Almost Famous/ Paparazzi

The bright colors of these artworks are rather stunning. The pieces certainly may provide interesting distractions for passengers waiting for the T, and their bold colors definitely attract attention

Thought Scape

Thought Scape is a somewhat bizarre yet entertaining work to observe. I can’t even begin to imagine what is trying to be portrayed, but whatever it is, it so extremely peculiar that one can’t help but wonder

MBTA Installations

Not only are these prints humorous and school-spirited, but they actually succeed in making the terrier a somewhat intimidating mascot. For that reason alone, they deserve some recognition. GO BU!

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The Evolution Within

This artwork is impressive in its ability to capture motion, especially when the observer is moving. Its location is perfect because it not only inspires a drive to move, but it makes runners perceive an opponent– an opponent who, in reality, lies within.

 

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Sneaker Mountain

This painting, unlike The Evolution Within, doesn’t seem to contribute anything meaningful to FitRec. Its only real connection is in theme. I personally don’t feel that it has any great aesthetic or motivational value, and doesn’t enhance the experience of using FitRec.

 

 

 
 
 

Stuvi II Installation

These panels actually make the lobby at the Student Village much more soothing. Although the water design is fairly basic, the location and color of the panels dims the light from outside and gives a soothing vibe to the entire area.

First floor installations of sva student paintings

Although these paintings are colorful, they seem to go unnoticed by students passing by. None of them are particularly remarkable, but none of them are particularly noteworthy either. In my opinion, they serve as mediocre space-fillers.
 
 
 

DeWolfe Boathouse

This is a beautiful structure, and its soft hues make it pleasant to observe, especially beside the placid Charles.

Mural of 37 Firemen

A visually stunning and personalized work such as this must do a great deal to inspire Boston’s firefighters. This is a great commemoration of a deserving group.

855 Comm. Ave Mural

The bright colors in this mural contrast the bland greys of the parking lot. It brightens an otherwise dull area along BU’s campus, making it a nice addition to the local art scene.

SMG steps

Although a rather simple concept, these steps are, in my opinion among the most interesting artworks throughout the campus. They are fun to observe from different angles, and effectively spread awareness of SMG’s impressive 100 year milestone.

Polis

The imagery of a unified world work well in SMG, and the work offers a unique point of view, both visually and philosophically.


--Dan Rybarczyk