If the top floor of James Dunn Hall is one of your regular study spots, you may have noticed some colourful, speckled artwork.
The works of art hanging on the brick wall come from the steady hands of Quyen Truong, a third-year psychology major at St. Thomas University.
Truong is completing her last semester of an independent study on pointillism. Pointillism is a style of art where images are created by the careful prodding of thousands of dots from a marker, paint brush or any other creative utensil.
Originally from Vietnam, Truong said she enjoyed drawing but never really got into art until she came to STU. In fact, it was the Registrar’s Office that pointed her in the direction of a pair of introductory art courses.
“It was never that serious,” said Truong, when asked about her interest in art before university.
One of the courses was Introduction to Painting, taught by professor William Forrestall. That class included a section on pointillism, a technique Truong picked up quickly.
“I didn’t see many students get it the way the professor thought it should be, only me and a few other people. [Forrestall] said I have strong instincts in pointillism so he suggested I [could] do an independent study with him,” said Truong.
Her exhibition showcases the final works of her study from last term. Truong said she enjoys how the art form stands out and creates a different effect with its texture, as well as its sometimes unpredictable nature.
“Sometimes it turns out to be something I don’t really expect, but I like it.”
The most import lesson Truong has learned is how opinions in art vary.
“I enjoy going through and knowing the process of an artist, how they came up with the idea and then develop it into an exhibition and develop it into a portfolio.”
She plans to continue showcasing her art to the public while still in school.
“I still really enjoy doing psychology, but it’s fun to have something on the side.”
Truong believes her independent study has given her time to focus on her craft.
“There is more space for you to explore,” said Truong.
Truong is participating in another independent study this term on advanced painting.
