TOP: Akio Takamori, Peony (2010), lithograph; 2011.3. BOTTOM: Gabor Peterdi, untitled (c. 1974), lithograph; 74.12.
October 4 – November 17, 2013
Works from the library’s permanent collection
If one says ‘red’—the name of a color—and there are fifty people listening, it can be expected that there will be fifty reds in their minds. And one can be sure that all these reds will be very different. – Josef Albers
Red. This simple word evokes a variety of conflicting meanings and emotions: love and anger, life and war, prestige and aggression, good luck and evil. How can one color both attract and repel at the same time?
Red is one of the oldest colors and was the first color named after white and black. This primary color can be found all over and in the very earth we walk on. Before the 19th century, red was obtained from natural sources: plants, animals, and minerals. During the 19th century two German chemists created the first artificial red, alizarin crimson. The ability to create various new hues and shades has led to an explosion of reds.
After you experience RED, you will be amazed, smarter, and wiser to the effects this color can have on your life. Discover the power of RED.
EVENTS
Click image to download exhibit PDF
First Friday Artwalk and Opening Reception
Friday | October 4 | 5:30 – 8:30 PM
Join us for a very RED First Friday. Discover how the eye perceives this amazing color as well as its many meanings and interpretations. Light refreshments and great conversation. Free artwalk shuttle runs from the west side of the Library parking lot. Bring a friend!
Community Altered Books Exhibit
October 7 – November 18, 2013 | Library rotunda and hallway
Discover books of a different sort as you walk through the library. Be amazed by the 3D book-themed artwork created by community members.
World, Art & You—Color!
Saturday | October 26 | 3 – 5 PM | Marvin 101C
See how colors are made and discover why color matters as we investigate color theory in a presentation and a hands-on painting experience. FREE, but registration required: 785-580-4515.
Mask-Making Workshop
Sunday | October 27 | 12 – 3 PM | Marvin Auditorium
This Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) project encompasses visual creativity as well as taking time to remember. Embellish and alter a ready-made blank papier-mâché mask to honor and reflect the memories of loved ones who have passed. Supplies provided. Presented by artist Rosina Ramirez. Free, but registration required: call 785-580-4608 or register online here: http://www.ddlmtopeka.com/Register_for_workshop.php.
November First Friday Artwalk
Friday | November 1 | 5:30 – 8:30 PM
Now’s your chance to see this showcase of all things RED from the permanent collection. Discover how the eye perceives this amazing color as well as its many meanings and interpretations. Free artwalk shuttle runs from the west side of the Library parking lot. Bring a friend!
William Sharp, Corrida (detail, c. 1963), lithograph; 63.347.
Michael Perkins
Multimedia Producer and Visual Artist at the library. When not at work you can find me drawing, making stuff out of wood and getting into trouble.