Good Thing Comes In… Trees (My Curated Student Art Exhibition)

For the Summer 2023 semesters, the CUNY CSI Library will be featuring a student art exhibit in the gallery space of the Library rotunda.

A Note to the Viewer:

I read a quote by Van Gogh 4 years ago that said “if you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint’, then paint, and that voice will be silenced.” So I did, and it was. And I invite you to try the same, to take the quote literally, switch out the word “paint” for something else if need be.

About the Exhibit:

This exhibit explores the themes of spring, growth, nature, light, dark, creativity, and interconnection sometimes literally, sometimes metaphorically. You will see similar images of butterflies, flowers, leaves, shadows of trees, flames, and waves span multiple paintings. Was this planned? No. I made the paintings years apart, and the themes beautifully unfolded on their own. Is the technique perfect? Likely not even close; in my life I’ve taken only one semester of a drawing class. But that’s okay, art is more about experimentation and exploration than perfection. I have the courage to share because I wish it inspires courage in you. Search for your own creativity, it’s there.

About the Artist:

Janet Akselrud, Macaulay CSI class of 2023, is a physics major turned math major who loves everything creative. She hugs trees and dances tango. She travels the world to make more connections. Her purpose is to make known the magic that exists all around, to make it less forgotten. To spark in others a love of life, creativity, and curiosity.

Click HERE to view all the artwork on display with their descriptions!