Combining her passions for physics, astronomy, symmetry and math — along with music and art — Anika Griffing’s artistic creations span a universe of topics from black hole and other astronomical phenomena to audio and geometry-inspired art on the back of vinyl records. Her collection of albums-turned abstract art — aptly called For the Record — was named a winning submission in the Campus Beautification Committee’s (CBC’s) first ART Tank competition back in October.
Now, just three months later, the 2024 SBU graduate has installed her colorful, thought-provoking pieces in both the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) building and the Melville Library Central Reading Room with the hope of inspiring other student artists to chase their dreams and share their visions.
“It was a very fulfilling experience and it’s always a good thing for people to see your art in public,” said Griffing as she positioned, measured and installed her pieces in the company of CBC, CAPS and Library members, with the help of Facilities, and with the support and encouragement of her dad Robert Griffing.
“I’m so glad I took the day off to be here,” Griffing said on January 22, ART Tank ‘Installation Day.’ “I’m so proud of my daughter, Anika, and all she’s accomplished.”
CAPS and Library staff were equally excited to brighten their work spaces with the aim of comforting and inspiring employees, students and visitors with the captivating art.
CAPS felt the night ‘skyscapes,’ or what Griffing calls Quantumplation, captured much of what they are trying to convey to students who come through their doors.
Executive Director of Behavioral Health and CAPS Smita Majumdar Das said, “It’s always been my vision when I started here to bring student voices to CAPS, and to exhibit student art in CAPS. It should have meaning and it should resonate with students who come in to see it.”
Majumdar Das said Griffing’s ‘backstory’ of channeling her autism into relatable art makes the statements even more powerful and relevant for the space. And, in fact, there will be labels for each piece of art along with a small print brochure that explains what Anika herself is all about.
Student Health Services/CAPS Operations Associate Daniela Benitez added, “We’re very grateful for finding a home for Anika’s art here at CAPS because each of the pieces has a distinct and very positive ‘vibration’ and ‘frequency’ that can help put our students into a space and mentality of ‘I’m safe. I am taken care of.’ And it makes us happy too.”
In Quantumplation, said Griffing, “I explore unproven theories in quantum physics. I make my own artistic interpretations, and expand the visual possibilities on canvas with a combination of scientific research and artistic intuition.”
At the Library, For the Record was equally well received. Said Jennifer DeVito, associate librarian and director of access and user services: “Having student art in our library spaces not only adds vibrancy and creativity but it also fosters a sense of belonging and transforms the library into a reflection of the diverse voices and talents in our community.”
For her part, Griffing said this project had special personal meaning, allowing her to convey what she’s passionate about in her art. “I created it as a direct response to being diagnosed with autism. This body of work allowed me to discover how my mind works and become more accepting of it. It felt like I was finally rubbing my brain the right way and I suddenly loved the thought of being a painter.”
CBC members are excited to help bring more student art from concept, to creation, to installation. So please watch for much more to come … across our campus walls and in these news stories.
— Ellen Cooke
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