Combining her interests in physics, astronomy, symmetry, math, music, and art, Anika Griffing's creations explore a wide range of topics. Her work includes black holes and other astronomical phenomena as well as audio and geometry-inspired art on vinyl records. Her collection titled "For the Record" was selected as a winning entry in the Campus Beautification Committee’s (CBC) first ART Tank competition last October.
Three months later, Griffing has installed her vibrant pieces in both the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) building and the Melville Library Central Reading Room. The 2024 SBU graduate aims to inspire fellow student artists to pursue their dreams.
“It was a very fulfilling experience and it’s always a good thing for people to see your art in public,” said Griffing during the installation process with support from CBC, CAPS, Library members, Facilities staff, and her father Robert Griffing.
“I’m so glad I took the day off to be here,” Robert Griffing stated on January 22nd during ART Tank ‘Installation Day.’ “I’m so proud of my daughter, Anika, and all she’s accomplished.”
Staff at CAPS and the Library were eager to enhance their environments with Griffing's art to provide comfort and inspiration for employees, students, and visitors.
CAPS found that Griffing's 'skyscapes,' known as Quantumplation, align with their mission for students. Executive Director of Behavioral Health and CAPS Smita Majumdar Das remarked: “It’s always been my vision when I started here to bring student voices to CAPS... It should have meaning and it should resonate with students who come in to see it.”
Majumdar Das noted that Griffing’s personal journey of channeling autism into relatable art adds depth to her work. Labels accompanying each piece will include a brochure explaining more about Anika's background.
Griffing described Quantumplation as an exploration of unproven theories in quantum physics through artistic interpretations that blend scientific research with intuition.
The Library also welcomed For the Record warmly. Jennifer DeVito, associate librarian and director of access and user services commented: “Having student art in our library spaces not only adds vibrancy... but it also fosters a sense of belonging...”
Griffing expressed how this project allowed her self-discovery following an autism diagnosis: “This body of work allowed me to discover how my mind works... It felt like I was finally rubbing my brain the right way..."
CBC is enthusiastic about facilitating more student artwork from concept through installation across campus walls.