A solo exhibition by J. Celeste Contreras Skierski (MFA 2022, Art: Print & Book Arts; Lecturer, Art & Design) is currently on view at Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum, a culmination of her six-month residency at the cultural landmark in Milwaukee.
During her residency, Skierski carved and stamped a rubber stamp daily, called a “reflection,” which she then used to create the pieces now on display in “We Are Reflections.”
The residency came at a time when Skierski was experiencing personal chaos in her living situation. She needed a more isolated art studio, and as Villa Artist-in-Residence, she was afforded that opportunity.
“I was totally addicted to the view,” said Skierski. “So, I used that. I used Villa Terrace as a place of refuge, a solace place… I needed a clean, clear, quiet place and that’s what this was.”
Throughout her twenty-four weeks, Skierski was not given a specific task other than to create art that inspired her.
“The goal here was to use the space and see what you make,” said Skierski. “I could just create. There was no goal of selling.”
On top of personal challenges, she found herself taken aback by the war and turmoil of today’s socio-political landscape, wondering how she could create artwork during this time. “We Are Reflections” became an exercise in resilience and perseverance.
“I know the power and the reason for art,” she said. “We carry a message in our work… It’s this freedom to express instead of being depressed. Even in the middle of depression, celebrating a little bit that we can overcome things.”
Located on Lincoln Memorial Drive and facing out to Lake Michigan, Villa Terrace is a communal space for Milwaukee artists and residents to appreciate art and nature with one another. It separates itself by being a museum, rather than a gallery, so there is no pressure on the artist to monetize their work.
Skierski grew up coming to Villa Terrace and has always viewed it as a source of inspiration. Coming out of her residency, she felt a renewed energy about creating art, which she hopes to instill in her students. She is a lecturer at UWM.
“I want to bring students here,” said Skierski. “I want them to look around and read and find out who these awesome artists are, where they came from, why are they even in Milwaukee… it’s all connected to history.”
“We Are Reflections” is on view at Villa Terrace through December 15, 2024. To read more and purchase tickets, visit the Villa Terrace website.
Story by Jason McCullum ’25