The Inherited Traits exhibition was an appropriate combination of conceptual art and this year’s TCNJ theme - family. The show was a very tasteful way to open the new art building’s gallery.
While walking around before the presentation, I was very struck by one piece in particular. In the middle of the back wall, I saw a large, thin metal structure with what appeared to be a bowl with legs suspended from it. The complexity that the overall simplistic structure embodied was very beautiful on a visual level; it had a captivating presence. I was intrigued, but did not understand it. I later learned that this piece was Heidi Kumao’s Translator. Kumao explained in her presentation that Translator was a commentary on the impact that domestic disputes have on a young child - a girl, in this case. This girl is seen switching back and forth between parental figures, each’s words seeping into her bones. Kumao portrays a very raw picture of family in her art, without neglecting the piece’s aesthetic value. After learning the meaning behind Translator, I found a deeper appreciation for the piece. By far, this was my favorite piece in the exhibit.
Overall, it was a terrific show, and I was very glad to have been a part of the experience.
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