Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University is set to hold a celebration of campus-inspired art installations as part of the Marking Place Project. The event will be held on April 16th at the Windgate Arts Complex. Led by McAndless Distinguished Professor Joey Quiñones, the project highlights the intersection of art with the university's history and surroundings.

"The project has been about expanding the definition of monumentality and giving space for new narratives to take root on campus," said Quiñones. "It’s been incredible to see how these students responded to that challenge with thoughtfulness, creativity, and heart."

Three installations by Quiñones, Lydia Vollavanh, a graduate student at EMU, and Maddie Gordon from the Cranbrook Academy of Art, have been selected for display. The selections were made through a juried competition open to MFA students at EMU and Cranbrook.

The event schedule begins with a seed bomb-making session from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the site of Vollavanh's installation, "Growing Home." Participants are encouraged to reflect on themes of growth and environment. Vollavanh will introduce her work at 2:30 p.m., a sculpture suspended from a tree that speaks to the Lao refugee experience and past anti-Vietnam War protests at EMU.

Following, at 3:15 p.m., Gordon will present "Reflections of the Past," composed of fabric tapestries inspired by architectural features of EMU. These works will be displayed at the Student Center.

The day's final event is scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Kaufman Critique Atrium. Quiñones will introduce "Trans Plant," followed by a poetry reading.

"The Marking Place project considers the role of statues, monuments, and memorials in representing diverse narratives," stated Quiñones, encouraging reflection on shared history and space.

The public is invited to participate, with events accessible without charge. Refreshments will be available during the closing reception. Event locations are detailed on an online map, and parking is available near the venue.

Eastern Michigan University, established in 1849, is recognized for its educational excellence and serves nearly 13,000 students. The university offers over 300 academic programs and frequently receives recognition for its diversity and educational commitment.