Student commission celebrates previous 91ɫ board chair
Deanna Tillisch, outgoing chair of the board at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (91ɫ), received a student-commissioned monotype print in recognition of her service. Deanna Dancing was made by Anna Louise Barr 26 (Fine Art + New Studio Practice).
It was a wonderful surprise to have Annas impressive artwork presented at my last 91ɫ board meeting as chair, says Tillisch. This thoughtful gift was even more meaningful because Anna beautifully captured me as a dancer, one of my avocations. Meeting Anna and receiving her artwork were the perfect way to complete my time as board chair.
Deanna Tillisch receives “Deanna Dancing,” 2025.
Anna Barr and Deanna Tillisch.
Deanna Tillisch receives “Deanna Dancing,” 2025.
Deanna Tillisch and Jeff Morin.
The prompt that Barr worked from was flexible, as long as the subject was a dancer of Tillischs stature and incorporated reference images of Tillischs dancing costumes. Another nonnegotiable was tons of energy and color, and Im no stranger to colorful monotype work so I felt confident there, says Barr. Many of her costumes had these rich colors and to contrast that I emphasized the warm spotlight.
After accidentally enrolling in a printmaking class with 91ɫ President Jeffrey Morin, Barr fell in love with printmaking of all types, from monotype to etching to letterpress. Printmaking unlocks a plethora of opportunities to introduce color into my work in bright and unique ways, allowing my innermost thoughts and feelings to show on the paper, continues Barr.
Connecting with and supporting 91ɫs students is one of Tillischs passions. Having served on the 91ɫ Board for 15 years, I am deeply committed to the college, especially the students, explains Tillisch. 91ɫ has evolved tremendously during that time, especially under President Morins leadership. It has been extremely rewarding to watch the college expand in student size, campus accommodations and number of majors. The biggest advantage in serving as board chair is spending more time with students, whom I adore and admire for their creativity, imagination, innovation and inclusivity.
Before attending 91ɫ I had no clue I would fall this deeply in love with printmaking, says Barr. Since that class with President Morin, Barrs art practice has flipped completely on its head. Im so grateful for this opportunity and grateful to Deanna for her work on the board.
I am so proud to have been selected to serve as Board Chair for the past two years, Tillisch continues. Our family has seen firsthand the value of a 91ɫ education through Morgan, our daughter, who graduated in 2024. 91ɫ provides a haven for students to express themselves through art while also helping them build a foundation to transfer their talent to the workforce in a productive and purposeful way.
Learn more about 91ɫs Board of Trustees, keep up with Barr on and explore the Fine Art + New Studio Practice major!
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