Artistic Duo Challenges Censorship Through Visual Storytelling

As Banned Books Week highlights the crucial role of artistry in combating censorship, a Tennessee-based creative duo stands at the forefront, emphasizing the power of visual storytelling. Jana Gilbert, a printmaker and letterpress artist, and Michelle Turner, a photographer, have joined forces to create a piece that is both thought-provoking and visually stunning, embodying the spirit of free expression that Banned Books Week celebrates.

Gilbert brings more than 12 years of experience to their collaboration, skillfully blending tradition with innovation in her approach. Her journey, shaped by a bachelor’s degree in visual arts and a master’s degree in marketing communications, was particularly influenced by her time at APSU, especially her work at the Goldsmith Press under the guidance of influential mentors. Her work has graced galleries in Nashville, Clarksville, and Virginia, and is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and narrative depth. Gilbert explores the intricate interplay of texture, typography, and emotion through her letterpress and relief carvings, creating pieces that resonate deeply with viewers.

Complementing Gilbert's tactile approach is Turner, a photographer with more than a decade of experience behind the lens. With a bachelor’s degree in photography and a master’s degree in marketing communications, Turner brings a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering the extraordinary within the ordinary. Her work, spanning both digital and film mediums, reveals a deep appreciation for nature and a talent for finding beauty in everyday moments, challenging and expanding viewers' perspectives.

Joining the Unbannable Library Project

Recently, Gilbert and Turner have contributed their considerable talents to the Unbannable Library project, an initiative that celebrates freedom of expression and stands against censorship. For Gilbert, this project aligns perfectly with her artistic philosophy. "The idea of the Unbannable Library is exactly why I enjoy creating art," she explains, highlighting her passion for work that champions diversity and free expression.

Bringing The Handmaid's Tale to Visual Life

For their contribution to the project, the duo focused on Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, a dystopian novel that explores totalitarianism, gender inequality, and resistance. Gilbert elaborates, "Through photography and graphic design utilizing layers and typography, we aim to evoke the feelings of restriction and control present in the narrative."

The collaborative process was particularly enriching for both artists. "Working alongside my wife allowed for a dynamic exchange of ideas," Gilbert reflects. This partnership not only deepened their understanding of the source material but also challenged them to push the boundaries of their artistic expression.

Engaging Viewers in the Fight Against Censorship

Their artwork for the Unbannable Library serves as more than just a visual representation of a banned book. It's a call to action, inviting viewers to engage with the themes on multiple levels. "I hope viewers will feel the emotional weight of the themes while also provoking thought about the implications of
censorship in their own lives," Gilbert reveals.

Through this project, Gilbert and Turner aim to convey the necessity of preserving freedom of expression. “I want viewers to recognize that art can be a powerful tool for resistance and that every voice matters in the fight for equality and justice,” Gilbert asserts.

The experience of working on this project has reinforced Gilbert's beliefs about the importance of free expression. It has also expanded her understanding of the many forms censorship can take in society. She believes that art plays a crucial role in combating censorship by challenging the status quo, provoking dialogue, and giving voice to marginalized perspectives. “By showcasing diverse perspectives, art not only raises awareness of censorship but also empowers individuals to share their stories and advocate for their rights, creating a more inclusive dialogue around free expression,” she notes.

Hopes for the Unbannable Library Project

Looking to the future, Gilbert and Turner hope that the Unbannable Library project will spark important conversations about literary freedom and the dangers of censorship. "By engaging the community in this dialogue, we can foster a greater appreciation for diverse voices and encourage individuals to advocate for freedom of expression," Gilbert states, emphasizing her hope that the project will inspire action and solidarity among artists and community members alike.

A Voice for Artistic Freedom

As Gilbert and Turner continue to push the boundaries of their art, their involvement with the Unbannable Library stands as a powerful testament to the role artists can play in shaping societal discourse. Through their work, they not only create beautiful and thought-provoking pieces but also champion the fundamental right of free expression, making them vital voices in the ongoing conversation about censorship and artistic freedom.

A Lifelong Love of Literature and Art: Spotlight on a Local Artist

As conversations around censorship and access to literature become increasingly urgent, artists play a vital role in advocating for the written word. With over thirty years of experience as an educator, local artist Billy Renkl offers a unique perspective shaped by his commitment to nurturing young minds. His artistic journey has led him to the Unbannable Library project—a series of oversized book sculptures that boldly challenge censorship. Through his work in illustration and artistic expression, Renkl reveals the transformative power of the written word.

A Career Steeped in Creativity

"I'm beginning my 36th year at APSU, teaching illustration and drawing," Renkl begins, his words carrying the weight of experience. His career has been intrinsically linked with literature. "I've worked with texts my entire professional life – as an illustrator of books, but also as an exhibiting artist who finds inspiration in literature, from King Lear to the poet Mary Oliver."

The Futility of Banning Ideas

When asked about his motivation to participate in the Unbannable Library project, Renkl’s response is both philosophical and practical. "As it turns out, most books are ultimately unbannable – at least now," he says. He points out the irony often seen in censorship attempts: "The efforts of misguided and small-minded people to try to ban a book often lead, eventually, to increased desirability and access. Ideas just aren't well-behaved."

Drawing from history, he references the 1882 edition of Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman, which sold out in Boston within a day of being banned. This example serves as a cornerstone for his contribution to the Unbannable Library project.

Whitman's Enduring Legacy

For his sculpture, Renkl and his collaborator, Susannah Felts, chose to focus on Whitman's Leaves of Grass. "We intentionally picked a 'classic' book – one that was banned in its time and is now beloved as great literature," he explains. The choice is poignant, highlighting how time often vindicates controversial works. "Whitman's great work didn't become greater in the 169 years since it was first published, we just caught up with it."

The Power of Collaboration

Working with Felts, Renkl found his preconceptions challenged in the best way. While he initially imagined focusing on Whitman's botanical imagery, his
collaborator zeroed in on the book's once-scandalous exploration of sensuality and desire. "That was so much more powerful than the small place I would have taken the project," he admits. "Susannah reminded me that the book was not just beautiful but was also heroic and necessary – a book that merited an oversized form."

Art as a Catalyst for Self-Discovery

As an educator in the Department of Art + Design, Renkl sees his role as more than just teaching techniques. "Over here we beta test everything that our culture is going to be wrestling with in a few years," he says. He views his position as a privilege, witnessing students become themselves through art and inquiry.

Reflecting on his own undergraduate experience, he contrasts the definitive statements of his upbringing with the open-ended questions of university life. “I'd spent my whole life up to that point being told who I was by well-meaning people who loved me: this is what we eat, this is what we believe, this is how we think about money and gender and beauty and everything else,” he says. “When I got to the University, those statements were replaced with a series of questions: What do you eat? What do you believe? Who are you? Who are you going to be?" These questions, he believes, are at the heart of education and personal growth.

A Personal Stand Against Censorship

The artist's passion for free access to literature is deeply personal. Recounting his childhood experiences in a small public library, he credits his parents' open-mindedness and trust in allowing him to read freely. "My parents could have been small-minded: my mom grew up on a peanut farm in south Alabama and my dad didn't graduate from college. But they weren't. And they trusted me, and they believed in the library."

This trust extended to professionals as well. Renkl vehemently supports the expertise of teachers and librarians in curating appropriate materials for young readers. “They are well-educated experts in their fields. Leaving aside all they know about learning styles and literacy and brain development and vocabulary and teaching strategies and inclusiveness – they've also had more coursework in child psychology than most parents. Can't we just trust them to do their jobs?” he asserts, advocating for better compensation for their crucial work.

A Call to Action

Renkl’s hopes for the Unbannable Library project are clear: beyond admiration for the oversized sculptures, he wants viewers to engage directly with the literature. "I hope they check out a copy of Whitman and carry it around in their pockets such that it changes their lives," he says, embodying the transformative power of literature he's championed throughout his career.

In a world where debates over censorship continue to rage, Renkl’s voice serves as a reminder of the enduring power of ideas and the importance of trusting individuals, especially young people, to engage with diverse perspectives. His contribution to the Unbannable Library stands not just as a work of art, but as a testament to the "heroic openness" that allows literature to shape and enrich our lives.

Unveiling the Invisible: An Artist's Protest Against Censorship

At the forefront of the fight against book bans and censorship, a multi-disciplinary artist is using his creative voice to make a powerful statement. Luke Warren, a recent addition to the Department of Art + Design faculty at APSU, channels his personal experiences and strong convictions into his work with the Unbannable Library project.

A Lifelong Passion for Reading

Warren’s relationship with reading has been anything but straightforward. "I am severely dyslexic and have several processing differences that not only shape who I am but also created significant challenges for me during my early years," he explains. As a young child, he faced the devastating doubt of a teacher who told him he was "stupid" and would "never amount to much."

Fortunately, his parents intervened, connecting him with a developmental reading specialist who transformed his life. "Without her, I wouldn't be where I am today at APSU," he acknowledges.

Championing Intellectual Freedom

This early adversity has infused Warren's artistic practice with a profound appreciation for the power of reading. "Reading offers a pathway to knowledge, exposing us to new ideas, dialogues, and perspectives, often from people with backgrounds different from our own," he reflects. "It is essential to engage with different viewpoints to foster global citizenship and a more inclusive society."

This belief in the importance of intellectual freedom is at the heart of his involvement in the Unbannable Library project. "Libraries should be places of  exploration, not censorship, where individuals can encounter new and challenging ideas," he asserts. Drawing on his own experience with a teacher who hindered his development, he is dedicated to maintaining spaces where people are free to explore subjects that interest them.

Visualizing the Invisible

For his contribution to the Unbannable Library, Warren has created a thought-provoking sculpture that symbolizes the erasure and camouflaging of books. "The inspiration comes from one of my father's favorite jokes: camouflage makes everything it's on invisible," he explains. This concept has been transformed into a powerful statement on book censorship.

The sculpture features a plush, pillow-like book form that appears camouflaged, seemingly hidden from view. Yet, upon closer inspection, the pages inside are bright and vibrant, "demanding attention." This duality, Warren suggests, mirrors the ways in which censorship attempts to conceal and suppress ideas.

Inviting Interaction and Engagement

Warren’s work invites viewers to actively engage with the sculpture, breaking down the barriers of invisibility. "I hope viewers will write in/on this work and give it plenty of hugs!" he says. The pillow-like form and a more rigid, bookmark-like element encourage tactile interaction, allowing viewers to "bring it back into focus" and "metaphorically breathe life back into its pages."

A Call for Civil Discourse

Through his contribution to the Unbannable Library, Warren aims to convey a powerful message about the current state of censorship and the importance of free expression. "I want to highlight that censorship is at an all-time high and that free expression is under threat," he explains. However, his approach is not one of confrontation, but rather a call for civil discourse.

"If someone disagrees with a text, they can choose not to read it, but they should not attempt to erase it from existence or from public libraries," he asserts. Warren believes that art can create a space for nuanced discussions, helping individuals become more aware of contemporary issues and movements in censorship.

A Lasting Impact

As the Unbannable Library project unfolds, Warren hopes it will raise awareness about censorship in libraries and inspire viewers to engage in the conversation. "I want viewers to be inspired by these works to engage in the conversation and offer their support," he says. Ultimately, he believes the project will provide clear, visual representations of the complex issue of censorship, encouraging critical thinking and action to address emerging censorship practices.

For Warren, the Unbannable Library project is not just an artistic endeavor, but a deeply personal expression of his journey with reading and his unwavering commitment to intellectual freedom. Through his work, he hopes to ensure that the voices and stories deemed "unbannable" will continue to be celebrated and amplified. You can learn more about Warren and his art at lukewarrenart.com.

Join us for an Unbannable Library Reception on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 5 PM - 6 PM in the Woodward Library, room 232. This gathering offers a chance to connect with authors and illustrators featured in the Unbannable Library. Your presence and participation will enrich our ongoing dialogue about the value of diverse voices in literature. No RSVP required. All are welcome.

Where Librarianship Meets Artistry: A Unique Voice in the Unbannable Library

In the realm of intellectual freedom, librarians often stand as silent guardians. But in the Unbannable Library project, University College Research Librarian Gina Nigro has stepped into the spotlight, bringing her unique perspective to this artistic stand against censorship.

A Librarian's Artistic Expression

"First and foremost, I am an academic librarian," she begins. With over 28 years at APSU, she has worked closely with the Departments of Art + Design and History and Philosophy, bridging the gap between academic disciplines and the vast world of art.

Despite not considering herself an artist in the traditional sense, Nigro found a unique way to contribute. Her project draws inspiration from The Librarian of Basra: A True Story from Iraq by Jeanette Winter, a book that has faced challenges for being considered "un-American" and for promoting the Koran.

"This is a nonfiction account, making it all the more powerful," she emphasizes. The story, which recounts a librarian's efforts to save a collection during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, resonates deeply with her. "As a veteran, reading stories about war can be difficult, especially when they're true. Yet, I believe books like this are important because they can educate and unite us, helping to ensure we don't repeat past mistakes."

Crafting a Message of Inclusivity

Her artistic contribution takes the form of a fabric activity book for children called a “quiet book.” One of the quotes she incorporated speaks volumes: "In the Koran, the first thing God said to Muhammad was 'Read.'"

"As a librarian, that quote really resonates with me," she shares. "While I'm not Islamic, I deeply appreciate its message. I also don't believe in banning this book just because of its religious context. We should all have the freedom to choose what we read, and it's a dangerous precedent when the government starts deciding that for us."

A Call for Respect and Understanding

When asked about her hopes for the project's impact, her response is clear and powerful: "I want people to respect differing opinions. What works for your family might not work for someone else's, and that's okay. It doesn't mean everyone has to follow your beliefs or choices."

She extends this philosophy to the broader issue of censorship. "Some of the laws we have are outdated and, frankly, ridiculous. We need to recognize that one size doesn't fit all. If you don't like a book, don't read it, but stop putting obstacles in the way of other readers."

The Power of Choice

The theme of choice emerges repeatedly. As both a librarian and a contributor to the Unbannable Library project, Nigro champions the right of individuals to make their own decisions about what they read. Her stance is not just professional but deeply personal, informed by her experiences as a librarian, a veteran, and a citizen concerned about the direction of censorship in our society.

Amid growing scrutiny of the written word, a librarian-turned-artist emerges as a testament to literature's ability to educate, unite, and inspire. Her involvement in the Unbannable Library project represents not only a compelling work of art but also a strong statement on the significance of intellectual freedom and respect for diverse perspectives.

Join us for an Unbannable Library Reception on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 5 PM - 6 PM in the Woodward Library, room 232. This gathering offers a chance to connect with authors and illustrators featured in the Unbannable Library. Your presence and participation will enrich our ongoing dialogue about the value of diverse voices in literature. No RSVP required. All are welcome.

Conjuring Magic and Defying Censorship: A Writer's Tale in the Unbannable Library

In the heart of Tennessee, a unique art project is taking shape to challenge the rising tide of censorship. The Unbannable Library, a series of larger-than-life book sculptures, stands as a testament to intellectual freedom and the power of diverse voices. Among the contributors to this innovative exhibition is Joanna Grisham, a local writer whose journey from student to educator has come full circle at Austin Peay State University.

Roots in Tennessee Soil

"I grew up in Tennessee, and I was a student at APSU years ago," Grisham begins, painting a picture of her deep connection to the area. After earning an MFA in Creative Writing and teaching at various institutions, she found her way back to her alma mater. "I've been back at Austin Peay for about eight years," she shares, highlighting a commitment to education that mirrors her dedication to the written word.

Her writing, a blend of poetry and prose, often delves into the complex tapestry of Southern life. "My work tends to focus on family dynamics with religious and Southern themes," she explains, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural context that informs her art.

A Call to Action

When she heard about the Unbannable Library project, Grisham saw an opportunity she couldn't pass up. "It sounded really cool and also significant and timely, considering all the measures being put in place to censor and eliminate certain voices," she recounts. As a queer writer, the project held personal significance, prompting her to join the artistic resistance against censorship.

Magic on the Page

For her contribution to the Unbannable Library, Grisham chose a poem she penned for her daughter, Lennon. "It's a poem about a little girl who believes in her magic, her power. Her parents – her mothers – believe her too," she describes. The choice was deliberate, addressing the often-challenged themes of magic in children's literature, especially in the Bible Belt.

"We have a spooky little kid," Grisham says. "She loves magic, witches, Halloween, potions, spells, mysteries." Through her writing, Grisham champions these interests, pushing back against the fear that often leads to censorship. "I think a belief in magic is beautiful and empowering, especially for little girls."

Collaboration and Creation

Grisham’s words found visual life through collaboration with local artist Leo Adames, a fellow APSU alum she knows from church. "He's a brilliant artist and musician and gracious person," she says. The partnership proved fruitful, with Adames bringing her poem to life in ways she hadn't imagined. "I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful depiction of this text," she says.

A Message of Empowerment

Through her contribution to the Unbannable Library, Grisham hopes to rekindle the sense of wonder often lost in adulthood. "I hope the audience sees this book and remembers their own magic and finds a way to conjure it again, the way they did when they were kids, without fear," she explains.

Her message extends beyond the personal, addressing the broader issues of censorship and free expression. "We don't have to be afraid of things we don't understand," she says. "There is beauty and wonder and magic all around us. We shouldn't be so quick to censor our kids; we should encourage them to find their voice and support them along the way. And legislators can tell us to be silent, but we won’t be silent. Never again."

Art as a Catalyst for Change

Reflecting on the project's impact, Grisham emphasizes the crucial role of art in combating censorship. "We need art – paintings, photographs, drawings, film, books, theatre, music, dance, all of it," she says. "We find ourselves in art, and we find each other in art too."

She sees art as a bridge to understanding and empathy, especially when it challenges our perspectives. "It may show us something we've never before
experienced or even considered, amplifying a voice we've never thought to listen to before," she explains. "And listening, hearing, and then empathizing leads to growth and understanding. That's how the world heals."

Looking Forward

As the Unbannable Library is unveiled across Tennessee, Grisham hopes it will inspire action and dialogue. "I hope others are excited to see all these giant, beautiful, provocative works of art and are inspired to read banned books, to fight the banning of books, and to promote discussion about what we can do to protect our artistic freedoms," she says.

In a world where voices are too often silenced, Grisham’s contribution to the Unbannable Library stands as a beacon of hope – a reminder that magic, in all its forms, deserves to be celebrated, not censored.

Join us for an Unbannable Library Reception on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 5 PM - 6 PM in the Woodward Library, room 232. This gathering offers a chance to connect with authors and illustrators featured in the Unbannable Library. Your presence and participation will enrich our ongoing dialogue about the value of diverse voices in literature. No RSVP required. All are welcome.

The Woodward Library Society 2024 Fall Program

The Woodward Library Society is excited to announce its upcoming fall event featuring Professor Ann Silverberg. This event promises to be an enlightening experience for all attendees, given Silverberg’s rich background in music, culture, and academia.

Date: Tuesday, Oct. 8 
Time: 5 PM
Location: Woodward Library, room 232 

At this event, attendees will have the privilege of hearing from Silverberg, a renowned ethnomusicologist and musicologist. She will be sharing insights from her recent research, which culminated in a monograph, titled A Contemporary History of the Chinese Zheng, published by Hong Kong University Press in 2023. The presentation is expected to delve into the modern history of the Chinese long zither zheng, a subject Silverberg studied extensively during her time as a Fulbright Senior Research Fellow in Beijing. 

This event offers a unique opportunity for attendees to gain insights into Chinese traditional music and its modern transformations. Participants will learn about the zheng and its significance in Chinese culture while engaging with research in ethnomusicology and musicology. Following the presentation, there will be a Q&A session, allowing attendees to interact directly with Silverberg, a leading expert in the field.

Silverberg brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this event. As a professor of music at Austin Peay State University, she teaches music history, music research, and ethnomusicology classes. Her expertise spans Chinese traditional music, liturgical music, and American music. Silverberg’s academic journey includes a Ph.D. in musicology and multiple master's degrees in anthropology, library and information science, and musicology. She recently earned a master's in teaching Chinese and another in teaching English to speakers of other languages. She completed a Fulbright Senior Research Fellowship in Beijing from 2015 to 2016 and currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors of the Clarksville Community Concert Association. Her publications include articles on the Chinese zither qin, Beijing opera, and the modern transformation of the zheng.

We encourage you to mark your calendars for this free event. The Woodward Library Society looks forward to welcoming you to what promises to be a fascinating exploration of Chinese music and culture through the lens of Silverberg’s latest work.

Adventure Awaits: D&D Sessions Return to the Library This Fall!

Attention all wizards, warriors, and would-be adventurers! The Woodward Library is thrilled to announce the return of our popular Dungeons and Dragons sessions for the fall semester. We invite seasoned dungeon crawlers and curious newcomers to join us for evenings filled with imagination, strategy, and camaraderie.

Mark Your Calendars

Our D&D sessions will be held monthly on Friday evenings. Here are the dates to save:

-- Friday, September 6

-- Friday, October 4

-- Friday, November 1

-- Friday, December 6

Time and Location

All sessions will run from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to embark on epic quests and daring adventures. We'll be meeting in the aptly named "Dungeon" on the 1st floor of the Woodward Library. Don't worry – it's much more welcoming than it sounds!

Join Our Community

Want to stay in the loop about our D&D events? Have questions about the sessions or curious about future dates? Join our Library D&D Discord server to connect with fellow players and get the latest updates. 

We can't wait to see you in the Dungeon this fall. May your rolls be high and your stories legendary!