MAREK RANIS | DURATION: 56 MINUTES
Airdate: May 2, 2018
Marek Ranis creates art about social and ecological change. His work considers the loss of permanence and 'the grief of the world.' Ranis is Associate Professor of Sculpture at the Department of Art and Art History in the College of Arts + Architecture at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He is a sculptor, installation, performance and video artist, public art artist and consultant, photographer and painter. Since 1994 Ranis has focused on environmental art and is the author of more than 50 large-scale environmental installations in United States, Poland, Germany, France, Iceland, Holland, Taiwan and Australia. Ranis has received many prestigious grants and has participated in numerous residencies and art symposiums in Europe, United States, North America, Asia, Africa and Australia. He earned a an Art and Design diploma from the Lyceum of Fine Arts and an MFA in Sculpture/Studio Art from the Academy of Fine Arts in Wroclaw, Poland.
This episode is perfect for anyone interested in environmental art, ecological change, and the connection between political and climate disruption.
IN THIS EPISODE
Marek addresses whether he is an artist who happens to be an academic or an academic who happens to an artist.
He considers his art as a 'landscape of landscapes' and how it connects to 'the colonial dream' and to 'world grief.'
He addresses whether there is a 'Polish sensibility' that informs his work about change.
Marek talks about the current political climate in Poland and climate change.
He considers what our collective denial about climate change says about the human condition and whether the planet will survive.
Marek reveals the roots of his fascination with lack of permanence.
He talks about his time as a student at the Academy of Fine Arts in Wroclaw and how he found his way to Charlotte.
Marek addresses the role of the artist, the ethical compromises in his work, and the difference he hopes his art makes.
plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Art as Crucifixion
To Learn More About Marek
Questions
What struck you about Marek's comments?
How are your ideas given form?
What do make of 'world grief'?
What difference do you hope your ideas make?
We invite your posts on our Facebook page.
This episode is sponsored by Blumenthal Performing Arts, celebrating its 25th year presenting the best in performing arts.
Further support is provided by Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, one of America’s leading urban public libraries, delivering exceptional services and programs, with a mission to improve lives and build a stronger community.
And by the Arts & Science Council, Charlotte-Mecklenburg's resource hub and lead advocate for the regional cultural community, providing Culture for All.
Additional support is provided by the UNC College of Arts + Architecture, celebrating a decade of creative education in the arts and design.
