If you haven't yet made your way to the Anderson Academic Commons (AAC) on the University of Denver campus, now's the time to witness a burst of colors that stand in sharp contrast to the usual library hues. Tucked away in the AAC, visit Frank Stella’s “Had Gadya” series, a vibrant abstract journey that juxtaposes tradition with Stella's signature style, on display through April 7.
Known for his role in shaping 20th-century modernism, Stella (1936-2024) engaged in various forms of art from minimalism to large-scale sculptures, leaving a vibrant mark in noted galleries including the Museum of Modern Art and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. As noted by the University Libraries, which is presenting this series in collaboration with the Center for Judaic Studies, Stella's work is a narrative-driven force that employs color and movement to weave a story.
Madison Sussman, assistant professor, and exhibit librarian, described the exhibit in terms, as obtained by the University of Denver News, "It still maintains that sort of frantic, building, cumulative feeling. You can’t see the cat, you can’t see the dog, but you kind of feel them in there." Such is the abstract power encapsulated in Stella's interpretation of "Had Gadya," a story traditionally regaled during Passover and originally illustrated by Russian artist El Lissitzky.
As part of the commemoration, DU Libraries and the Center for Judaic Studies invite the public to "An Evening of Art and Story: Frank Stella’s ‘Had Gadya’ in Conversation", slated for April 2 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Dr. Adam Rovner and Dean Sobel will lead a panel discussion amidst an offering of beer, wine, mocktails, and appetizers, an evening that promises to augment the visual feast already on display. RSVPs are encouraged, with the option to join virtually with a Zoom link provided for those unable to attend in person, as per University of Denver News.
The "Had Gadya" exhibit aligns with library hours, open to the public for free, and while photography without flash is welcome, the library's tranquility remains continually embracing students and visitors alike. The AAC has standard and spring break hours, open as early as 7:00 a.m. and closing as late as midnight, ensuring ample opportunity for the community to engage with Stella's work. Do remember, during spring break, from March 22nd to March 30th, hours are slightly tweaked, opening from 8:00 a.m. and shutting down the color-drenched spectacle at 8:00 p.m.
