Forbidden Art: The Un-extinguishable Spark

Sketches, sculptures, and paintings by World War II concentration camp prisoners comprised the Forbidden Art Exhibit. This evocative and unusual collection graced the Franciscan Gathering Space and the area in front of the Library throughout January and February. Art Department Chair Chris Seguin took the lead to bring the exhibit to Madonna University. She noted, “…the work speaks of the power of creativity and endurance of the human spirit.”

Some faculty asked their students to write responses to the exhibit. In addition, Adjunct Professor and Writing Center Specialist Marian Gonsior initiated the Forbidden Art Exhibit Reading at the Franciscan Gathering Space on Monday, February 8. Earlier, students, staff, and faculty had been invited to submit their written responses to the Writing Center. Many of the authors attended the event and read their contributions aloud.

Many thanks to Deepinder Uppal and Sr. Nancy Jamroz—co-directors of the Center for Catholic Studies and Interfaith Dialogue—for their support. Thanks also to Marian Gonsior and our other writers, who shared insightful and moving responses to these haunting images.

-- Frances E. FitzGerald