Artist and Phillips Academy alum Peter Halley ’71 returned to campus this spring as the Addison’s Edward E. Elson Artist-in-Residence, in conjunction with his work on view in the exhibition Little Boxes. Halley’s paintings explore both the physical and psychological structures of space, connecting the visual language of geometric abstraction to critiques of the mechanization and commercialism of the modern world.
Halley discussed AI technology with students in English courses reading texts that explore the dark side of biotechnology and posthumanity, which provided a dynamic perspective on the overlap between their course reading and contemporary life. Students in the philosophy course Aesthetics have spent the term discussing art’s definition and evaluation, and engaged in lively discussion about whether art should always serve as societal critique.
Peter Halley, Station, Cell, Factory, 1990. Screenprint on frosted Mylar, 35 5/8 x 31 1/8 inches. Gift of the artist (PA 1971), 1991.157.4
Peter Halley, Final Attributes, 1990. Screenprint on frosted Mylar, 35 5/8 x 31 1/8 inches. Gift of the artist (PA 1971), 1991.157.2
Painting students were intrigued by Halley’s artistic trajectory and he, in turn, visited students in the Advanced Studio course in their workspace to see their in-progress artwork and talk about their direction as artists.
Halley’s time in conversation with students and faculty on campus inspired future projects as well, as he looks to include campus perspectives in a new mural to be installed this fall in conjunction with America in the Making, the Addison’s upcoming exhibition marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The Addison’s Edward E. Elson Artist-in-Residence program plays an important role in the museum’s exhibition and education programming, energetically supporting contemporary art by bringing established and emerging artists to campus. Every year, artists are invited to produce new work in the Visiting Artist Studio, exhibit in the galleries, give public talks, collaborate with students, and/or lead discussions with students from Phillips Academy and surrounding communities. Residencies range in duration from a few days, to a series of short visits, to several months. The Addison residency program began in 1946 with Charles Sheeler and continued informally until 1982 when it was endowed through the generosity of Phillips Academy alumnus Edward E. Elson, class of 1952.
