Libby Interviews - Mark Warwick on the Orb

Libby interviews Mark Warwick, chair of the art department about the neon sculpture in the library

Libby: Why is there a neon orb in the library?
Warwick: Precisely so you would ask about it.

Libby: Why the library and not the art gallery? The library is for studying, right?
Warwick: The library is a place for LEARNING! I am sure the architect of the library had more in mind for Musselman Apse than simply a place for reading books --just look at the space!

Libby: Who is the artist? Is he/she famous or just one of your pals?
Warwick: The artist is Fred Tschida. He certainly IS famous if fame is measured by an active exhibition schedule. Haven't you read Fred's resume, which is posted by his sculpture? If this is the first time you have seen Fred's work - put him on the top of your Neon Artist list - right next to Dan Flavin!

Libby: Who is Dan Flavin?
Warwick: Listen Libby, you have a lot to learn about Neon Art!

Libby: You're right. Libby is quite embarrassed about her poor preparation for this interview. She realizes with great chagrin that she should have taken a look at the highly popular Grove Dictionary of Art database which the library has online. At the risk of appearing even more unlearned, what is neon?
Warwick: Neon refers to luminous devices containing neon gas, mercury vapor, argon or other inert gases and their combinations used in electric signs or lamps generally tubular in shape. Neon (from Greek neos: 'new') is a rare inert gas that was discovered in 1898 and that was immediately recognized as a new element by its unique glow when electrically stimulated. The vapor-tube device filled with neon gas was invented by Georges Claude in Boulogne-Billancourt near Paris in 1910.
The various uses of neon in art correspond to the need for creating colored dynamic light effects, for modeling interior and exterior spaces and for modifying existing architecture. Although it has been said that neon light, from Las Vegas to Tokyo, symbolizes the energy and vitality of modern life, its presence in works conceived by artists operates rather as an antidote to hectic agitation and invites quiet contemplation and meditation.

Libby: So tell me. What powers that baby?
Warwick: A group of 50 people rapidly pedaling bicycles in the basement of Musselman. Or, if they are tired, a wall outlet. According to Fred, this regular old wall outlet sends 110 volts of electricity to two transformers located at the base of the sphere. These transformers convert the 110 volts to 15,000 volts of power. Now that's a transformation!

Libby: How long will it be here?
Warwick: The exhibition closes on April 18.

Libby: Can you make it stop humming?
Warwick: Nope. The whir is part of the experience.

Libby: I hear there is more neon in the gallery? True?
Warwick: Yes, there IS more neon in Schmucker Art Gallery. Another talented artist, Deborah Dohne, has just installed a NEON ROCKET in the Gallery. There is also a thought-provoking installation by video-artist Wago Kreider. He has three video works playing in the Gallery. And you thought Gettysburg was boring!
The Gallery is open Monday - Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and on the
weekends from 1:00 - 4:00 pm.

Libby: Last question. Is this really art?
Warwick: We all have different notions about what art is. To me, this is definitely art at its finest. I hope many people will enjoy it while it is here. If you, the viewer, don't like it, or don't consider it art, perhaps it will help you formulate a personal notion of what art is for you. If you are struggling with this work as "art" perhaps you will consider registering for one of our excellent Art History or Studio Art classes next semester to delve deeper into this fascinating subject!

Libby encourages your comments on the orb, positive or negative. Register your views on the butcher block paper hanging on the wall outside the reference office.