New Tyler School of Art Piece Sparks Controversy

A piece of art made its public debut last Thursday in the courtyard of the Tyler School of Art. Standing about 30 feet wide, approximately 8 feet high and lined by wooden frames and black fabric, the work reads in painted white letters, “white people. do something.” The piece stirred a lot of buzz on campus, and no one really knew where it came from.

The artwork was created by Kara Springer, an MFA Sculpture student of Tyler who entitled the piece “A small matter of engineering (Part 2),” which is believed to be the second installment of another work also completed by Springer labeled, “A small matter of engineering (part 1).”

In retaliation to the piece, some took to social media to comment on how they perceived it. The Tyler School of Art excitedly announced the installation of the work on Twitter last Thursday, igniting a mixed critique of the structure. The majority of comments originated from non-Temple students, and from individuals from across the nation. Some users questioned whether or not Temple University “specialized in victimhood,” or discredited the work entirely by stating that it should not be considered art at all.

Tyler School of Art Student Morgan Crumlich shared her perception of the piece and why she feels it’s important for people to witness. “Initially, I was a little shocked that it was put up but I think it’s good because I think it’s something that people need to start thinking about, like white people need to start thinking about and thinking about what they can do.”

Although the message of the art is unclear, one sentence may be all that it takes to provoke observers. “I just think that we have to be really careful when we’re taking these social movements that we’re not ostracizing people who would want to help us,” says Reuben Wilson, a junior photography major of the Tyler School of Art. “I know a lot of white people who might’ve been on the fence would look at that and say, ‘see that’s why I don’t support it, because they’re all in my face.’” Wilson also revealed that he hopes that the request for white people to do something would “inspire or empower” them to incite change and to share their opinions, if positive, with others.

To view the two pieces of artwork by Kara Springer and more, visit the Tyler School of Art courtyard.