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  • June 30, 2008
  • Christine Davis Mantai

Anchors and Gears by Hunter

“Anchors and Gears,” a granite and steel sculpture created by Brett Hunter, has been installed between Mason Hall and Reed Library.

The latest addition to the “In Sight/On Site” sculpture program at the State University of New York at Fredonia makes a strong impression ─ which comes as no surprise, given the fact it was created from granite and steel.

“Anchors and Gears,” a work created by sculptor Brett Hunter, has been installed in the green space between Mason Hall and Reed Library on the SUNY Fredonia campus. Standing more than six feet tall, it was made from pieces of granite and steel over the course of several months.

“This work focuses on the ideas, issues or experiences that set individuals apart from one another,” Hunter said. “There can be a certain peace to voluntary physical separation, an opportunity to be free from other’s expectations and reactions. On the other hand, to be surrounded by other people yet unable to connect, communicate or commune brings us to the depth of solitude.”

Hunter, an assistant professor of sculpture at Alfred University, earned his bachelor of arts degree from Kalamazoo College in Kalamazoo, Mich., and his master of fine arts degree from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio.

He was invited to participate in the “In Sight/On Site” program after coordinator Robert Booth, distinguished teaching professor of Visual Arts and New Media and head of the sculpture curriculum, saw Hunter’s work on display on the Jamestown campus of Jamestown Community College.

The artist was pleased to have the opportunity to participate in the “In Sight/On Site” program at SUNY Fredonia.

“I really enjoy these types of shows,” Hunter said in reference to outdoor exhibitions. “They offer the ability to have a work in one place for a longer period of time. People have a chance to get more of a feel for the work.”

In addition, Hunter thinks “Anchors and Gears” works well in a setting with green grass and trees.

Since 2000, Hunter has had his works exhibited in eight states. His work has been on display at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio; Corporex Development Corporation’s Rivercenter Complex in Covington, Ky.; Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland, Fla.; Jerome Library at Bowling Green State University and Kalamazoo College.

Supported by the Department of Visual Art and New Media, the student art group ARTFORUM, the SUNY Fredonia Office of the President and Friends of Rockefeller Arts Center, “In Sight/On Site” is designed to give the campus and the community the opportunity to see the latest in contemporary sculpture and foster an appreciation of art in public places.

Under the “In Sight/On Site” program, SUNY Fredonia accepts outdoor sculpture for an ongoing, revolving installation on campus. The site preparation, such as the creation of concrete pads for the sculptures, is done by the campus department of Buildings and Grounds with cooperation from Kevin Cloos, director of Building Services and Grounds, and Mike Wygant, maintenance supervisor.
“Anchors and Gears” will remain on the SUNY Fredonia campus for two years.