Posted on March 8, 2024 at 12:29 PM by Monet Butler
Mickalene Thomas (b. 1971) does not make art that you can simply walk up to. Thomas’ work is known for commanding the space it is in, jumping out with vivid colors and bold imagery. When Geoffroy Hall was built in 2016 as a new residence hall on the Iowa State University (ISU) campus, around 0.05% of the total construction budget was set aside for public works of art, continuing ISU’s legacy of dedication to public works of art. Thomas’ untitled mural within Geoffory’s lounge space showcases five different living rooms, each with its distinctive color palette and style, drawing from Thomas’ childhood in the 1970s.
While each of these living rooms is carefully collaged together with a variety of mediums, one thing that is not included is the people. By showcasing just the space, each person who walks through gets to invite themselves into the mural. A residence hall is oftentimes the first “home away from home” for students, and by using nostalgic imagery, Thomas creates a sense of belonging. There are several points in the mural where the medium is reflective, creating a literal mirror for those who walk by. It is energetic with its color palette and collage style but is first and foremost inviting. If a student is studying into the wee hours of the night and wants nothing more than to go home, they can glance over at this mural and recognize something that might make them feel at home. The variety of these rooms guarantees that no matter what someone’s background is, they feel comforted.
Most of Thomas’ art is colorful and bold, creating an instantly recognizable style. Much of her works of art draw inspiration from the complexities of being a Black woman and from her childhood (specifically her mother). This is incredibly evident in this mural, as it effortlessly transports the viewer to whatever home might feel like for them. Thomas is not only a painter but a multi-faceted producer, curator, educator, and mentor. During the creation of this mural, Thomas mentored an ISU student. As an undergrad, Evan Harrison (Architecture ‘19) spent a week in her studio being mentored by Thomas, learning about her creative process and learning techniques while helping create this mural. Not only is the mural for Iowa State students, it was also (partially) made by an Iowa State student, making it even more special.
Creating this mural was certainly a labor of love. Stretching over 40 feet long and 9 feet high, this imagery invites students to go home, even if not physically. The mural expresses to first-year students that Geoffory Hall is their “home away from home.” Thomas’ dedication to energetic and potent art is evident in this untitled mural, inviting students to sit and stay a while.
Monet Butler
University Museums 2024 Pohlman Fellow
ISU Class of 2026 | Political Science
Untitled, 2017
Mickalene Thomas (American, b. 1971)
Location: Geoffroy Residence Hall
Size: 40 feet x 9 feet
Commissioned by the University Museums and the Department of Residence. An Iowa Art in State Buildings Project for the Department of Residence, Geoffroy Hall. In the Art on Campus Collection, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa. U2017.399