Equanimity: Meditation Through Ceramics Exhibit at the Discovery Building

Ceramic sculpture
Violet Wong

The Wisconsin Institute for Discovery (WID) is hosting a ceramics exhibition, Equanimity: Meditation Through Ceramics from April 30 – May 19, 2022.  Violet Wong, is a Madison-based ceramicist who has created five sculptures that set out to convey the meditative qualities of ceramics through balance, elegance, and serenity. Representing the five elements of air, earth, fire, space, and water, the exhibition will provide a safe space for all to explore their inner thoughts and emotions through art.

“I often encounter failure when working on pieces with high levels of difficulty,” said Violet, “but it only drives me even more each time.” The intentions behind Violet’s sculptures acknowledge that meditation and reflection is not beyond reach for those who feel they lack time, energy, or interest in doing so. Her exhibit will include instructions for a self-guided meditation focusing on visual appreciation and self-satisfaction.

Ceramic model of a ship
Sculpture in progress

Meditation has been studied by psychologists and neurologists for many decades under the emerging field of contemplative sciences. At at UW-Madison, the Center for Healthy Minds engages in research to reveal strategies for science-based evidence of mindfulness and cognitive control practices, led by the widely renowned Dr. Davidson. The Center for Health Minds and the Handlesman Lab at WID are engaged in a large microbiome analysis on an ongoing study of the impact of mindfulness training on depression. This exhibit embodies the science-art fusion concept that WID seeks to synergize across artistic and scientific disciplines through its Illuminating Discovery Hub. 

Born and raised in Malaysia, Violet Wong is currently pursuing a BBA in Risk Management and Economics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Ms. Wong was introduced to clay by Gloriann Langva, and immediately fell in love with the material. She is now training under Gerit Grimm, who is well-known for her folklore figurine sculptures.

Violet Wong is in a work-study program at the University where she learns more about clay, including glaze and kiln firing.

The exhibit will be on display in Room 1160 in Hub Central at the Discovery Building, 330 N. Orchard Street from April 30-May 19, 2022.  An opening reception will take place on April 30, from 5:00 – 7:00 PM.  RSVP for the event reception here.

For more updates and information, follow @violetwongceramics on Instagram or email her at violetwongceramics@gmail.com.