Passaic Today

Montclair State University Galleries is set to showcase "Invasive Blooms," a solo exhibition by artist Layo Bright, from February 1 to May 4, 2025, at the Alexander Kasser Theater Cases. The exhibition delves into themes such as time, feminism, migration, and the African diaspora through various artistic mediums including glasswork, textiles, wood, and ceramics.

The display will feature both recent and new pieces by Bright. Among these is an hourglass sculpture representing the passage of time and “Bloom Portraits,” a collaborative project with the Montclair State University community. This series combines cast face molds with individually crafted glass flowers to symbolize migration and cultural narratives.

A highlight of the exhibition is the Bloom series which honors resilience and identity through intricate glass portraits of women from Bright's community. This includes contributions from Montclair State University’s students, faculty, and staff who shared their migration stories for incorporation into the artworks.

Bright's Gele Sculptures draw inspiration from traditional West African head wraps worn by women. These works pay homage to African and Black diasporic cultural narratives while reimagining these headdresses to connect past traditions with present empowerment.

Another element of Bright's work involves "Ghana Must Go Bags," which reference woven plastic bags linked to historical migration events in West Africa. These patterns are integrated into both her glass sculptures and abstract paintings like Horizon Line 1 & 2.

Bright describes her art as a means for reflection and dialogue about shared humanity. She stated: “Glass is a wonderful medium. It’s fragile, yet resilient. In the Bloom series, I aim to capture the strength of women and their stories through this material."

Layo Bright was born in Lagos, Nigeria but now resides in Brooklyn, NY. She holds an MFA from Parsons School of Design and has exhibited at various notable venues across the United States.

The Montclair State University Galleries exhibition is curated by Director Megan C. Austin. An artist reception will be held on February 4 at the Alexander Kasser Theater Lobby with remarks by Bright herself along with Director Austin at 6 p.m.

Art Forum on February 10 will host discussions featuring artists including Layo Bright presenting her latest work in "Invasive Blooms." The exhibitions are open Monday through Friday from noon until 6 p.m., free for public attendance.

For more information or inquiries about visiting or supporting Montclair State University Galleries’ exhibitions can be directed via email at galleries@montclair.edu.