The Health Sciences and Human Services Library’s next art exhibit, “Zoning Out: Public Health Impacts by Auto Policy,” by artist Sierra Iola, will be on display in the Weise Gallery from Aug. 1 through Sept. 25. The exhibit explores how “carchitecture” has become so ubiquitous that most people no longer recognize it as a cornerstone of modern life. Iola connects car-centric design and policy to traffic deaths, hyperconsumption, tire dust, and other consequences often accepted as commonplace.
After being “plopped” into an American suburb, Iola began questioning how car-centric policies affect physical health, mental well-being, and social cohesion. Using acrylic, spray paint, Flashe vinyl paint, oil and low-relief sculptural elements, she invites viewers to reconsider what we accept as normal and imagine healthier alternatives.