The Harvard Staff Art Show is showcasing the creative talents of university employees, with this year’s exhibit featuring works from 215 staff artists at three different campus venues, according to an April 10 announcement. The multimedia show runs through May and June at Longwood’s Countway Library, Cambridge’s Smith Campus Center, and Allston’s Harvard Ed Portal Crossings Gallery.
The annual event was launched in 2020 to provide a platform for staff members whose day-to-day roles do not always allow them to express their artistic abilities. The show aims to highlight the diversity and creativity within the Harvard community.
Among the featured artists is Kaye, who draws inspiration from her work at the Herbaria. Her piece “Forest Floor” combines botanically dyed fabric, embroidery thread, cyanotypes, and natural materials found in Vermont. Kaye said her goal is to “continue to integrate art and science,” adding that she hopes viewers will “feel connected to nature and reflect on the importance of biodiversity.” She also emphasizes using sustainable materials in her practice.
Another artist profiled is Srinivasan, whose linocut print “Panacea” addresses current issues in public health by challenging anti-intellectual trends promoted on social media. Srinivasan said that creating art has helped her become more empathetic with patients: “But I also think learning to connect with people emotionally with my artwork has allowed me to be more empathetic and understanding with patients.” She sees strong connections between printmaking and surgery due to their shared tactile nature.
Sekoll participates for the first time this year with his metalwork lamp displayed in Allston. As director of design and fabrication instruction at Harvard’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), Sekoll values both artistry and functionality: “For me, art doesn’t have to sit on a pedestal. Art doesn’t have to be a painting on a wall.” He says teaching students how things are made brings him excitement equal to making his own pieces.
The Staff Art Show demonstrates how creative pursuits enrich both personal lives and professional environments within academic institutions like Harvard.
