Inspired by the potency of the spoken word, artists Stephen Hayes and Linda K. Johnson have created "The Henna Project: A Temporary Tattoo for SMSU." The pair has placed quotes on the walls, floors, rails, and windows of Smith Memorial Student Union. This is one of nine projects commissioned by Portland State and Oregon's Percent for Art Program with funding generated from the remodeling of Smith Union.
The artists created their quotes from conversations with students, faculty, and staff in Smith Union and from others off campus. They looked for "words of transformation and deep meaning that people are inclined to pass on to their family and friends."
The installation, which debuted in the building on Jan. 5, will remain through Dec. 31, 2009. The project is also
online.
Committee members who selected the art are artist William Park, artist and faculty member Harrell Fletcher, and Smith Union administration and building users. Working with resident student organizations, the artists were asked to undertake self-defined residencies for the creation of artwork in any medium. They were also required to employ a PSU student as an assistant. The first project was launched in June 2008 and projects will continue at the site through June 2010.
