Heather's Thoughts

After looking for local sculptures to go out and analyze, I realized I had the perfect one in the back of my mind the entire time. This sculpture is titled Thomas A. Edison “The Wizard.” It is located on the campus of Florida SouthWestern State College in Fort Myers, Florida. I walk past this statue almost every day and have never thought twice about it. However, now after taking some time to truly view this sculpture, to participate with it in a new way, and after some online research, I’ve found a new perspective.

This work was created in 2006 by a local Fort Myers sculptor Don, otherwise known as D.J., Wilkins. At first glance, the sculpture can be seen portraying Thomas Edison standing with a cane and holding a silver ball. Upon further inspection, two plaques can be found surrounding the statue. There is one on the floor in front of it and one on a stand beside it. The first plaque on the floor features the title, states that the painting was dedicated November 14, 2006, and that Orvall McClearly donated it to the college. It also features a quote at the end, “Education Is Our Brightest Light,” that helps to emphasize the purpose of this sculpture. The second silver plaque states the title again and includes some information about the statue and Edison’s relation to the college and education. “Thomas Edison’s great enthusiasm for reading, experimentation, and entrepreneurship are as inspiring as his diverse interests and love of adventure. Edison State College is proud to share the Edison name and entrepreneurial spirit it represents.” It also credits the artist, Don Wilkins, at the end.

This sculpture’s subject is the famous American inventor, Thomas Edison. He once resided here in the Fort Myers area, and his estate still remains for people to visit and tour. The purpose of this sculpture is relatively clear. It was made to honor and memorialize Edison for his status as one of America’s greatest inventors. The title even refers to Edison as “The Wizard,” emphasizing his scholarly brains and brightness. The surrounding plaques help recognize the purpose. The silver plaque next to the sculpture states, “The silver ball in his hand is emblematic of Edison’s remarkable mind. It spins, signifying his relentless intellectual curiosity and willingness to examine a problem from all sides.”

Thomas A. Edison “The Wizard” is an important piece of art for the community. It is located in Fort Myers, Florida where Edison’s estate is popular. It is on the campus of Florida Southwestern State College which was formerly called Edison State College, named after Thomas Edison. The sculpture’s location and depiction of Edison indicate its correlation to the value of education and intellect. Again, the statue’s plaques help to further express the significance of its meaning within the community. The floor plaque features a short quote, “Education Is Our Brightest Light.” This quote illustrates education as one of the most important things that guide this community (our brightest light). The standing plaque states, “‘The Wizard’ inspires the students of Edison State College to study the remarkable life of Thomas Alva Edison who was named by LIFE Magazine as the Man of the Millenium.” Thomas Edison is a great inspiration to students because of his direct ties this area and his impressive innovations. Edison’s success definitely sparks a flame that encourages students to continue to expand their minds and build upon their wisdom and intellect.

“The Wizard” is a full round sculpture. It is intended to be viewed from all sides. It stands taller than the average person, at approximately 7-8 feet. It is located in a very peaceful area of FSW’s campus, across from a koi pond and garden of flowers and other beautiful greenery. The statue’s silver plaque offers an explanation to the surrounding scenery stating, “Edison stands across from the Garden of Inspiration as if he is taking in all the Garden has to offer. Having looked at the silver ball, Edison lifts his eyes to the viewer. With that, he asks, ‘What are you going to do with your intellect?'” I believe the large size of the sculpture helps to emphasize the significance of Thomas Edison and this representation of his great success and impact on FSW, Fort Myers, and the world.

To see more art from D.J. Wilkins, visit his website below:

After exploring the Metropolitan Museum of New York’s collection of abstract art, I found a painting that stuck out to me. This is an acrylic painting on canvas called Tink Tonk by Nabil Nahas. At first glance, it seems messy with a lot going on and that is precisely what drew me to it. This painting first caught my eye because of its chaotic nature. I chose to analyze this painting out of many others because it has the most striking appearance.

Tink Tonk features a variety of lines going in many different directions. They are all closed lines (hard and sharp). These lines create different overlapping, angular shapes within them such as triangles and squares. The path of each line leads back to one another. Each line is a different bright color that pops against the dark background. The colors suggest excitement and high energy. There is a lot of interesting textures in the background of this painting. The left side is composed of a lighter area with a lined pattern placed over brushstrokes. The right side is much darker. It also features a lined pattern, but these lines are crisscrossed. The center of the background is black, creating a great contrast between the vibrant, jagged lines and background. The top of the painting is the lightest and brightest part featuring vivid, colorful lines over a white background. The values of color in this painting create light and shadows that draw the eye to different areas. The clutter of lines, colors, and shapes create a crowded space. This painting has volume because of the placement and angles of the lines, forming a three-dimensional appearance.

Tink Tonk is a very lively and eye-catching painting. The aggressive, sharp lines paired with the vibrant colors and contrast of the dark background create a highly energized feel. The lines and shapes are overlapping and make the painting feel crowded and almost overwhelming. To me, this painting is exactly how I picture a shock of electricity. It creates an exciting mood. From my interpretation of the different elements in this painting, I believe Tink Tonk represents a sharp jolt of energy.

The work of art I chose to interpret is the painting titled “The Music Lesson” by Dutch artist, Johannes Vermeer. The painting takes place in a sunlit room, portraying a woman standing at a virginal, an instrument similar to a piano. Next to her stands a man, watching her play, appearing to give her a music lesson as the title presents.

There are many important details of this painting. Almost all that I could pick out seem to serve the purpose of emphasizing the focus. Many of the elements in the painting that surround the woman, reveal her significance as the main focal point. The pattern of the tiled floor, the window frames, the edge where the left wall meets the floor, and the angled edge of the tapestry covering a table to the right all lead the eye to point directly at the woman. Although she can only be seen from behind, there is a mirror located right above the virginal that reveals her reflection. I found that the artist’s use of color, highlights, and shadows are also significant details that help to bring the focus toward the woman. The light colors of the walls, virginal, and blouse of the woman highlight her focus. The bright red color of her skirt also draws the eye to her. The outer edges of the painting feature darker shadows that, again, blur the borders and bring the focus to the center. This painting captures a peaceful and intimate moment between a man and a woman sharing music. Their placement emphasizes their privacy. They are in the background behind two chairs, another instrument, and the tapestry covered table. The audience is separated from the couple and given the privilege to peek into a private moment between a couple from the outside.

The elements of this painting that I enjoy the most are the various patterns and colors like the tiles on the floor and the intricate tapestry draped on the table. They are simple, yet work together in such a beautiful way. I also like the included element of the mirror that gives a glimpse of the otherwise mysterious woman. This painting first appealed to me because of the simplicity of the scene. For me, it represents the importance of music. I love music and incorporate into my life every day. I like how it isn’t just portraying someone playing an instrument, but instead a music lesson between two people. It creates a more unique scene that I haven’t seen before. The other element that is represented by this painting is my favorite part. It’s the value of shared time between one another. I love how this painting is capturing such a peaceful and sentimental moment, especially with music.

Thanks for joining me!

Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. — Izaak Walton