UWM alumna, Melanie Ariens, is the featured artist at the Union Art Gallery for an exhibition of mixed media pieces inspired by environmental issues.
The exhibition is titled “Working for the Water, Working for Each Other.” As stated by the program guide, “each piece reflects on how water unites us, emphasizing our shared responsibility to protect and cherish this vital resource.”
As a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts graduate and Creative Arts Manager of the Milwaukee Water Commons, Ariens is uniquely qualified to bring these environmental justice issues to the forefront through her artwork.
The Milwaukee Water Commons, a non-profit organization, is involved in environmental work surrounding freshwater issues. As the Creative Arts Manager, Ariens uses her art as a community engagement tool.
At an Artist Talk held on Sept. 12, Ariens led a panel of community artists to discuss her exhibition in front of community members in attendance. The talk brought awareness to Milwaukee on the importance of preserving the area’s freshwater sources.
“Everybody in the world depends on water,” Ariens said.“By taking care of the water, you’re taking care of everybody.”
Ariens also addressed many students at her talk.
“I just hope that the show gives students hope for whatever they’re pursuing and that they are going to be able to craft a career out of it,” Ariens said.
In the audience was Ariens’ first teacher she had at UWM, Dr. Deirdre Keenan.
“I don’t know of anybody that has a mind like hers,” Keenan said. “I don’t know how she thinks of these things and then turns it into such meaningful work.”
Dr. Keenan was a doctoral student teaching freshman English at the time Ariens attended UWM.
“It didn’t surprise me at all that she became a water warrior. That’s just the kind of person she is,” Keenan said.
For the last decade, Ariens, in another form of giving back to the community, has mentored students. Sarah Lothian, a current UWM community arts student, is under her mentorship this semester.
“I’m excited to work hands-on with a great community artist,” Lothian said.
Lothian will learn the ways an artist can get involved with the community.
“It was important for me to have students see the trajectory of an art career…and how you can use your talent to address issues in your own way as an artist,” Ariens said about her continued involvement with UWM.
The time Ariens spent at UWM learning and networking was crucial to her development as a prominent artist of the community.
“I can’t imagine doing what I’m doing without having gone to UWM,” Ariens said. “Those old UWM connections, they’re still important.”
“Working for the Water, Working for Each Other” will be available for view through Sept. 27.