On Feb. 13, Davidson was graced with the incandescent color of Warp Weft Water Weeds, a solo art exhibition by Elizabeth Bradford. The Katherine and Tom Belk Visual Arts Center (VAC) was a sprightly gold and eager visitors crossed the two bouquets marking the entrance of Bradford’s solo exhibition. The oranges and pinks of the horizon spilled into the atmosphere below; campus buildings, trees and passersby reflected the vibrancy. A variety of flowers and greenery speckled the building’s interior—echoing the exhibition’s theme of natural landscapes. Nevertheless, Bradford’s original works easily outshined all surrounding decor.
Bradford’s work explores what “remains of the underdeveloped South” and has roots in abstraction, according to her website. Bradford is well-established in the world she depicts: having spent over 50 years in the area, her experience sharpens her artistic observations and enriches her works’ significance.
According to Director and Curator of the Van Every/Smith Galleries Lia Rose Newman, Bradford’s work resonates with many like herself who were affected by the recent devastation of Hurricane Helene. “This exhibition feels especially timely, as I am currently inundated with horrific images from our neighbors in Western North Carolina,” she wrote in an introduction to Bradford’s work. “Bradford’s artwork is a reminder to reconnect with the land and, further, that it is our responsibility to protect and preserve these important places.”
Upon entering the main gallery, open dialogue dropped to faint whispers. Every masterpiece hosted a crowd of spirited observers. Visitors first approached Stone, Old Fort (2020)—an underwater perspective of a stone—and attempted to dissect the detail.
In Venus (2024), Bradford illustrates mossy roots wading into calm water. A warm palette of oranges, browns and yellows push surrounding foliage and stones into the background. Icy blues and purples highlight lush greenery and the pool’s reflection. Masterfully, Bradford captures both the unruly and geometric qualities of natural patterns. Armed with a variety of brushstrokes, she stippled tree bark, flicked grass stems and smoothed water reflections onto the canvas. Adopting an impressionist lens, the landscapes dance between whimsical realism and dynamism.
Harris Huber ‘27 described these flying colors as “astonishing.” He furthered, “I thought the use of color was really cool as it was very different from what we have seen before in the gallery.”
Van Every/Smith Galleries Intern Charlotte LaBenne ‘26 attended the event but also has observed the exhibition over the last few weeks while working in the VAC. “She depicts the natural world through color and shape. Davidson wanted to show artwork by local artists to showcase the community,” LaBenne stated.
One of the elements most exciting about Warp Weft Water Weeds was its direct connection to the Davidson landscape. The local visitors of Bradford’s exhibition could empathize with her deep admiration for the trees, rocks, streams and branches of the surrounding area. Bradford’s muse is also her cause; well aware of the recent threats to the natural landscape she adores, the painter encourages the conservation of her subjects—natural masterpieces by their own right.
Courtney Lassiter ‘27 and Bella Rosenfeld ‘27, two interns alongside LaBenne at the Van Every/Smith Galleries—explained Warp Weft Water Weeds in the context of the gallery’s history. Rosenfeld worked the event and recorded the number of visitors that entered. “The VAC has never seen an event quite like this,” Rosenfeld marvelled as she marked new entries on a counter. She was also excited by the popularity of the event, exclaiming that “the turnout was HUGE.”
Lassiter, who is working to build the foundation for her own career as an artist, was quick to analyze what really grabbed visitors upon viewing Bradford’s exhibit. “I know a lot of people told me specifically that her work just gave them a sense of comfort. […] It really connects us back to a natural environment in these times of stress.”
Lassiter is right. Walking around the exhibition, one finds solace in Bradford’s work. Warp Weft Water Weeds is an incredible example of dedication balanced with appreciation. The solo exhibition will be available to view at the Van Every/Smith Galleries until April 9. Students overwhelmed with their academic and extracurricular obligations are encouraged to consider a brief trip to the VAC. Bradford’s abstract landscapes just might lend a refreshing and meaningful perspective to a busy life.
Annelise Hawgood ‘27 is an English major from Cincinnati, OH and can be reached for comment at [email protected].
