Vanessa German, a Pittsburgh/Asheville-based artist, recently held a solo exhibition at the Logan Center Gallery in Chicago. The exhibition, titled “At the end of this reality there is a bridge—the bridge is inside of you but not inside of your body. Take this bridge to get to the next _______, all of your friends are there; death is not real and we are all dj’s,” showcased a unique collection of artworks that were born out of an experimental seminar german led at the University of Chicago.
The seminar, which german designed around the concept of “paraacademia,” focused on esoteric knowledge such as magic, the occult, and fairy tales. The artworks in the exhibition were inspired by the discussions and interactions german had with students during the seminar. She aimed to create pieces that would transport viewers into a space of vulnerability, curiosity, and courage, similar to the atmosphere of her seminar.
During an interview, german discussed her artistic process and the meaning behind her creations. She referred to the small clay objects in the exhibition as artifacts that contain kernels of power, representing awareness and consciousness. These objects are meant to share their energetic imprint with anyone in proximity, creating a unique experience for viewers.
German also touched on the idea of consciousness as the complete animation of source energy, drawing parallels between human interaction and the way people engage with technology like ChatGPT. She emphasized the importance of curiosity and open-mindedness in communication, suggesting that a nonviolent and nonhostile approach could lead to new discoveries and stories.
The exhibition will be on display at the Logan Center Gallery until December 15th, offering visitors a chance to experience german’s thought-provoking and immersive artworks. The show is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 9 PM, providing ample opportunities for art enthusiasts to engage with german’s work and explore the concept of consciousness through art.
In addition to german’s exhibition, the Chicago arts scene is buzzing with other exciting events and shows. From a retrospective on pioneering painter Paula Modersohn-Becker at the Art Institute to the Royal Shakespeare Company’s return to Chicago Shakes with “Pericles,” there are plenty of opportunities for art lovers to immerse themselves in creativity and culture. Whether you’re interested in visual arts, literature, or architecture, Chicago has something to offer for everyone looking to explore the vibrant arts and culture scene of the city.
