Donovan's ‘Haze' fills Rice University's art gallery

By Christina Bryant

The artistic world in its most natural form can be found at Tara Donovan's installation of "Haze" at Rice University's art gallery. "Haze" is a part of a 2003 installation called Art in America. The art produced by Donovan is extremely site specific. Every installment is unique because each one is constructed at the individual site of its exhibit. "Haze" covers the entire 44-foot back wall of the Rice Gallery and stands about 12 feet tall. Donovan invited Rice students and members from the community to join in the construction of "Haze." Viewing the exhibit from afar, "Haze" seems to represent a light fog draping the wall of the room or a more abstract interpretation of an ivory sea overflowing with small impressions that resemble waves. When viewed a little closer, it resembles a life-like coral reef. The appearance changes as it is passed, almost like it is moving. Upon close inspection, it becomes obvious that the piece is made of individual plastic straws. All of Donovan's art is organized using everyday items such as toothpicks, pencils, plastic straws and Scotch tape. After experimenting with different types of mass-produced media, Donovan has been able to produce art works that truly take on natural forms. "Beginning with an open experimental approach, I respond to the physical properties of the material that will eventually give rise to a structure or unit when accumulated," said Donovan in an October interview for Flash Art Magazine. Donovan holds a bachelor of fine arts degree from Corcoran College of Art and Design and a master of fine arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. A number of her solo art exhibits are featured in museums and art galleries throughout the country. "Haze" will be on display in the Rice Gallery through Dec. 14. Admission is free and the gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information on the exhibit, call the Rice Gallery at (713) 348-6069.