By Taylor Jensen/entertainment editor
In response to his teacher’s challenge to explore one distinct theme throughout the semester, NW student Zak Freeman decided to create art that communicates emotions too difficult to put into words.
Freeman’s finished project, A Colorful Conjecture, is now a solo exhibit displayed in the Project Space area on the WTLO second floor on NW Campus. Freeman said although it’s a great feeling, he is still getting accustomed to his work being on display.
“You know, it’s kind of scary,” he said. “It’s like speaking in public. I’m trying to get my message to people.”
The exhibit includes several paintings of hands covered in bright shades of paint. Freeman’s inspiration was the gestures he uses when he talks and the colors he applies to emotions.
“I express these emotions by using symbolic colors and gestures, and each painting conveys a different feeling,” he said. “My goal is for each person to experience something unique and personal but relatable to his or her own feelings.”
Freeman’s teacher, art associate professor John Hartley, said the Project Space is reserved for the “best of the best.”
“When you’re selected to show your work, it builds pride,” he said. “[Zak] has come a long way. His work is really dynamic.”
Hartley said Freeman’s work was of such high quality that if he didn’t know him, he would assume the work was not a student’s but someone who had been painting for years.
“It never surprises me when students do this good,” he said. “But they always surprise themselves.”
Freeman said painting allows him the opportunity to share his feelings in a way he couldn’t with words.
“I feel connected to my work because I am not good at expressing my own emotions vocally,” he said. “This is the way that I express myself, and that’s the message.”
