felt, not seen . . .

“felt, not seen…” is a solo MFA Thesis Exhibition by Danley Walkington that examines a loss of self, belonging, and connection. Through imagery of old steel playground equipment once played on in rural Nebraska, Walkington’s home state, these objects become a metaphor of self; a stripping and caging of identity incurred from working eight years in Nebraska state prisons. Through the use of playground imagery, Walkington seeks permission to find themselves through play, by arranging copiously printed imagery into large-scale wall installations and prints. As part of the exhibition Walkington invites viewers to participate in an interactive element of game play, with the games Pass the Pigs and Mexican Train Dominoes, during the open reception and a second designated game night during the exhibition's run. Game play engages and encourages connection with the artist and other participants. It is through play, memories, and nostalgia that Walkington seeks to feel true belonging and connection.