CoLAMagazine_June2018_WebEdition

International Students
UNITED
in Art
Justin Ginsberg, Head of the
Glass Area and Assistant Professor
of Practice in the Art and
Art History Department, believes
that art can have a global reach.
He said, “While art is certainly
not always collaborative, the field
often naturally unites individuals
through the creative development
and challenges.” Ginsberg notes
that while there may be differences
between individual artists –race,
nationality, gender, socio-economic
–the differences frequently
instigate empathy, understanding,
and learning from one another.
For example, two of his current
Master of Fine Arts students are
international students who came
to the United States to study art.
Both received scholarship offers to
attend the Pilchuck Glass School
and participate in Ben Beres Vitreography
in Stanwood, Washington,
during summer 2018.
Sara Rastegarpouyani was born
and grew up in Iran; Katerina
Sara Rastegarpouyani (Left), Katerina Verguelis (Right)
Verguelis was born in the Ukraine,
but spent most of her early life in
Israel. Because of longstanding
political and religious differences
between their nations, neither
student would be allowed to study
in the other’s respective country
however, at UTA they are roommates
and close friends.
Rastegarpouyani, noted, “America
was the bridge that was given
to us to build the relationship. I
would never have the opportunity
to meet Katerina, forget about
ever being friends, if I were still in
Iran. Being together at UTA has so
wholly enriched my life.”
Ginsberg plans to help organize
a joint art show for the pair in
the fall. He said, “It would be an
interesting show as both Sara and
Katerina approach work directly
related to their experiences as
international females now living in
the US. Colleagues, and the public
group who engage their work, are
confronted with the fact that these
are identifying characteristics, but
ultimately they are simply human.”
Verguelis, wants to encourage
people who may attend her shows,
Rastegarpouyani’s shows, or a joint
show in the future, to forget their
preconceived notions about their
countries. She said, “Don’t judge
either of us as a nationality or the
politics of our country, just come
and see the show and enjoy.”
““Big Deal” by Verguelis
Materials/Technique: Laminated safety glass,
engraved, chiseled. The piece is a magnified replica
of the artist’s tattered American Student Visa. “Big”
refers to the piece’s size; “Deal” epitomizes the social
contract one makes to be allowed into America.
“My Land Number 2” by Rastegarpouyani
Materials/technique: Temporary Floor Relief, Glass
Powder A temporary large-scale (360”x260”) replica of
the Cyrus Cylinder, considered the first human rights
charter. The glass powder is left to be naturally
exposed to different kinds of factors which allows
change over time to highlight the temporariness and
ephemeral quality.
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