The past week was so full. I had some glitches that, thankfully, worked themselves out. Hanging the show went smoothly, although I had to make some changes in what I had envisioned for it, but liked the end result very much. I made the decision to focus on just a few things for my show. The most important thing that I wanted everyone to see was what all the spouses said about being a spouse. I decided in order for everyone to really be able to view them, I would frame each response and hang them on the gallery walls. Otherwise, there would be a few books that everyone would have to gather around and try to see. I did a picture montage on each side of the walls in the middle of the framed responses. To me the next thing that was important was the paper I printed on because of the materials I used. I set up a display with explanations of what materials I used and how paper is made. Lastly, I decided to use a quote from Deborah Mullen on the back wall. Simple but powerful is what I wanted for this show and I think I achieved it. I could not have done any of this without the men and women who participated in this project. I cannot thank them enough. It is my deep desire that this show helps people to understand us better and to give thought to the lives of people who serve our country and their families.
So on Thursday night I was ready for this event to happen. Many people came out to see it. Some of my book arts friends, who also teach at school, brought their classes with them. It was really interesting to talk to some of the undergraduates about the show, and to hear their thoughts about it. Here are pictures with all the gallery lights on after I'd finished hanging the show. I forgot to give my husband the camera as opening night happened and only remembered at the tail end. Here are three from that evening. I'm sure my dad took lots more and will send them to me later. This Friday will be the final step in this long process. The private defense with my committee members in the morning and the public discussion in the afternoon. Wish me luck!
