On Friday, November 6, Ohio Northern University unveiled the commissioned scultpure "Nexus" by Professor of Art Luke Sheets. The work is displayed on the first floor of Heterick Library, where is it is illuminated internally and can be viewed from inside and outside the building.
The sculpture was commissioned in honor of the university's 150th anniversary. The cylindrical structure is described as exploring "one of the most concrete intersections of art and mathematics—the golden ratio. It also includes numerous symbolic components and uses light to illustrate the concept of students venturing toward their future."
“By locating Nexus centrally on campus and referencing both the public art and architectural elements across campus, I’m bridging our past, our current reality, and the future yet to come,” Sheets explains.
Guests gathered for the unveiling had the opportunity watch a video of Sheets constructing the sculputure. A segment of the video can be viewed on Instagram.
The sculptor told the Icon that he often works with a deadline as he did with this project. Many stages of planning came before the execution of the design, with the results of the firing of the glazed form being the most unpredictable.
A professor at ONU for the past 16 years, Sheets is head of the 3D Studio Program. In addition to teaching the university’s 3D studio courses—3D Design, Ceramics, and Sculpture—he also leads the Senior Capstone Experience for the art and design students. Over spring break 2020, he also led a study abroad class to Guatemala.
Sheets’ studio practice involves research into glaze chemistry, exploring the various effects possible by wood firing at different temperatures, and the use of local materials to create a stronger sense of place in his work. He has presented his research at both national and international conferences and has participated in international residencies. His work is exhibited locally, nationally and internationally.
