The Seed Collector, Acrylic on canvas 60”x60"

This past year has been so very challenging that it is continually surprising to know that even as we have all been struggling, there are many artists who kept creating and producing emotionally powerful work during this time. The wonderful show that is currently hanging in the Speck Gallery by artist H. Ward Miles is called, “Microparticles” is an example of this.

You may recognize this artist’s style as her work has appeared in various public spaces, most notably her mural of Mass Ave. that was displayed at the Indianapolis International Airport from 2018-20. Her work is characterized by bright, beautiful colors, organic shapes and patterns and a joyful aura given off, even when the piece depicts a serious narrative.

The collection on display during March of 2021 was inspired by the artist’s participation in the Religion, Spirituality and Arts seminar (RSA) held at IUPUI. Discussions on the topic of Noah and the Flood sparked this exciting collection that was, emotionally, a perfect fit for a year when people have been living in quarantine and our society has been examining our beliefs and functions.

Miles notes that the exploration of Noah’s story proved to be “eerily in sync with the events that have taken place through the pandemic and the social justice movement in 2020.” Throughout the collection, she has used “Biblical ideas as allegories to address modern crises.”

The Flood Story, Acrylic on canvas 48”x48”

These luscious abstract works, which are so enthralling to view, address topics such as white fragility, gender roles and climate change, among others. As I entered the Speck Gallery from the east doorway, I felt like I was venturing into a magical land of ovals and circles of every size and breathtaking color. There are very few sharp edges here. These compositions each use such similar elements, yet everyone expresses a different, powerful narrative. It’s pleasing to my soul’s sense of beauty, and also to my mind.

Miles, who spent sixteen years teaching Art at Crispus Attucks High School, has been focused on her own artwork, painting in her studio at the Stutz Building for the past six years. I can’t help but to think that her role as an educator has informed the allegorical nature of her current work, and as such has served her well.

You won’t regret examining this work online, or better yet, make an appointment to see it in person. “Microparticles” is on exhibit in the Speck Gallery throughout March, 2021.