September 24, 2019
La Roche Professor to Present Scars, Patterns, Process Healing Exhibit
PITTSBURGH, Sept. 24, 2019 – La Roche University graphic design professor Lauren Lampe will showcase her original artwork for a special exhibition entitled, “Scars | Patterns | Process | Healing,” in La Roche’s Cantellops Art Gallery of the Zappala Campus Center.
The exhibition will take place from Sept. 25 through Oct. 21. Viewing hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with additional access by request. There will be a reception held in the Cantellops Art Gallery on Oct. 3 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Ms. Lampe's show features 30 one-of-a-kind prints, process work and designs. The works are meant to expand upon the idea of the creative process as a stress reliever, and relate to her synthesis and expression of dealing with people suffering from anxiety, stress and depression.
“This body of work is a visual bridge between my mind and the world. These pieces represent a snapshot into some of the recent emotional highs and lows I have witnessed and experienced both tangentially and in depth,” Ms. Lampe said. “People at home, at work and in society go through intense experiences on a daily basis. Family members struggle, students struggle, society struggles. I am deeply affected by the people around me and utilize my art-making process to ease my mind.
She added, “When others are suffering, I see the world through the lens of their suffering. The goings on in my life directly influence my designs, and the work displayed in this installation took me on a cathartic journey. Once again I found myself using art to heal.”
Ms. Lampe uses her artwork to demonstrate the highs and lows of mental health issues prevalent in today’s society. For example, the abstracted figurative forms float in and out of clarity in her work. She also uses pattern to play a strong role in treading the fine line between decorative and being overwhelmed. Ms. Lampe uses this deeply personal work to acknowledge those affected by these issues and to give outsiders the opportunity to reflect on them.
Staff members from the Office of Counseling and Health Services will be present at the reception on Oct. 3 to offer information and help for anyone who needs it. The office will advocate for their on-campus services and introduce themselves as a valuable resource to those who may be struggling.
Erin Dorsch, a mental health therapist for La Roche and supporter of the exhibition, said, “Our hope is to reduce the stigma of mental health and raise awareness for mental wellness. We always try to support our students any way we can, and coming to college can be the first time they experience a mental health issue. We want students to know they have support, and they don’t have to feel alone.”
A mixed media artist, Ms. Lampe has been with La Roche as a graphic design professor for more than 20 years. She has a Master of Fine Arts degree from East Carolina University. Ms. Lampe teaches and exhibits locally, nationally and internationally.
For more information visit laurenlampe.com or email lauren.lampe@laroche.edu.
About La Roche University: A private liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 66 undergraduate programs of study, six master’s degrees and one doctoral degree, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, and health and medical sciences as well as interior design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for more than 1,400 men and women enjoying 30-plus student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.