Nicolet College unveils new public art installations

Two new pieces of public art have been installed on the Nicolet College campus in Rhinelander.

The art installations are the result of a competitive selection process that included artists from across Wisconsin, with special consideration given to those from within the Nicolet district, the college explained in a press release.

Nicolet College alum Carly Ratliff created one of the pieces called, “Finding Art in All Things.” 

Ratliff’s five-panel installation features 3D fiber art and acrylic painting, with each panel paying tribute to one of the many academic programs at Nicolet College: Culinary Arts, Liberal Arts, Welding, Cosmetology, and Healthcare.

“I took great comfort from the natural beauty of Lake Julia and the surrounding campus as a student,” said Ratliff. “During a summer watercolor course, I discovered my own style in the way I paint landscapes. As an alum, I have a genuine appreciation for Nicolet College, understand the value it provides to the community, and seek to shine a light on the important role it plays in the Northwoods.”

Ratliff incorporated materials from Nicolet College’s student uniforms into her artwork, adding an element of authenticity and connection to the college’s educational mission. This artwork is displayed in the first-floor commons of the Lakeside Center.

The second piece, “River of Souls,” by Cody Cottrell - Tekayanalow^nas`e, a member of the Oneida Nation and a member of the Oneida Nation Arts Board, draws inspiration from the Northern Lights. This artwork features a steel base structure with colored acrylic rods, symbolizing the connection between the living and their ancestors.

“Our spirits will find our ancestors who have also passed on before us, and we will rejoice and dance in the sky and call it Waawaate, the Northern Lights,” Cottrell - Tekayanalow^nas`e explained. “The Anishinaabe refer to the Milky Way as a ‘river of souls,’ and branches of the river fall down to Earth, and you travel on that river in the Afterworld, a place where we can reconnect with our ancestors.” This artwork is displayed outdoors on the Nicolet College field.

Nicolet College’s public art initiative not only enhances the visual appeal of the campus but also serves as a testament to the college’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment that honors and celebrates the diverse backgrounds of its community members, the release states.

“In partnership with ArtStart, Nicolet College was able to bring these inspiring, dynamic, and meaningful pieces to our campus,” Jenny Bonardelli, Nicolet College arts and events manager said. “Through this collaboration, we are able to celebrate the diverse cultures within our community and provide a platform for numerous types of artists to share their unique perspectives.”

This project is also made possible by a Wisconsin Technical College System Perkins Grant.