These inspiring words were delivered during a master class given last Thursday in our theatre to our eighth grade boys by legendary artist Jeff Koons, the featured speaker at the Frederic (Eric) Wu ’14 Alumni Parents Council Lectures. The event, which also included the boys' parents and alumni parents in attendance, focused on Koons' philosophy about art.
His art, which by turn references the classical art of Greece as well as popular culture, calls upon the viewer to reflect —sometimes literally, as in his mirrored gazing ball sculptures — and to make connections. At Saint David’s, we speak of the Renaissance ideal—a humanistic concept that embraces the capacity of all human beings to accomplish much across a full spectrum of areas if they possess an open mind and willingness to learn and grow. In a similar vein, Koons noted how effortlessly art can connect people to philosophy, theology, aesthetics, allowing a dialogue in so many disciplines. Everything in life, after all, is related.
"Art is for your own empowerment; and you can also use it as a vehicle to empower others. Life in art is about serving and generosity.” Deeply reflective and philosophical, Koons encouraged the boys to “say yes” to opportunities when they present, and to allow their true selves to guide them in living fulfilling, happy, and meaningful lives.
The Frederic (Eric) Wu’ 14 Memorial Fund was established in 2020 in honor of Eric who lived a short but meaningful life. It supports all aspects of the Alumni Parents Council Lecture Series, an experience that Eric treasured as an eighth grader.
