Bugs as art: Mankato artist takes a new look

BY SARA SYVERSON

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- A Mankato artist, Makeba Ische, will be having a reception from 2-4 p.m. today in celebration of the opening of her art exhibit at Council for the Arts in New Ulm (C.A.N.U.) Kiesling House Gallery.

The showing runs until Sept. 24.

Ische will display approximately 20 pieces in her first solo showing for C.A.N.U. The body of work she will be displaying is made up of sculptured bugs using elements of ceramics and mixed media.

"The bug -- the idea behind it is a form or a thing deemed seemingly insignificant ­ and I tried to apply it to social things that seem insignificant, but yet have an impact on life," the artist said.

"The bug is also a part of the eco-system. The things I address are mostly things I see as problematic in society."

Ische is currently a senior at the Minnesota State University, Mankato, majoring in art and women's studies. She also works full-time with challenged adults.

"I kind of knew when I began ninth or tenth grade that I would have art be a part of my life," said Ische.

Ische's mother, Chris, said her daughter was painting at an easel at the age of three.

Ische has had several of her art pieces exhibited in juried shows. She found out about the C.A.N.U. gallery from a friend, and decided to inquire about it.

One of Ische's goals when she graduates is to work with at-risk youth in the inner city, using her arts background.

The public is invited to attend the reception, which is free, and also to visit the gallery to view Ische's art.

"It's something different (her art)," said Ische, "I don't think it's something you see everyday..."