Colleen Chan

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

I submitted two works, one series titled Curious Behavior, that entailed atypical behavior from a human if left to their own devices. It correlates to Larry Sultan and Mark Mendel’s book Evidence. I also submitted a book titled Hey, Sugar! that addresses sugar being an addictive substance.

Why did you decide to come to MCAD?

Growing up we always had white walls to help my visually impaired parents. White walls help brighten a room and discern space but the walls were often empty. What triggered my choice was when the advisor announced that students could showcase their work on the white walls of the school. At any time even. I gushed. I wanted to see the walls scattered with art all day, whether it was mine or someone else’s.

What are your plans for your senior year? And beyond?

For senior year, I plan to devote my time and energy to solidify my artistic intent, network and further build upon my relationships, and set future long term-goals for after graduation. One goal I have after graduation is that I plan on opening an exhibit with fellow artists in the Minneapolis area.

Favorite thing about college life (so far)?

My absolute favorite thing is seeing fellow student’s artwork on the walls!

What's the best thing you've got from MCAD's free shelf?

My freshman year I took a shoe because I thought it looked so worn, alone, and seemed symbolic of my travels through college thus far. I photographed it in different ways. When I was done, I took the lace for my cat and put it back on the shelf. She is happy with her shoelace still.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by nature, current events, silence, long walks, and watching other people.

Do you have a favorite piece you've made? Describe it!

In my series Project Mask, there is a photograph of an individual in the center of the image with leading lines of food on each side of the aisle. They are wearing a gas mask in a supermarket clutching a cart, facing the camera. The hues and saturations are amplified, giving the aurora of toxicity. It was one of the first series I worked on. it is not perfect by any means and that is why I love it. It was made in 2017. Pre-pandemic.

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

Ah, I’m obsessed with time as a construct.

Favorite quote?

“Important work is easily dismissed by the audience. It involves change and risk and thought.

Popular work resonates with the people who already like what you do.

Viral work is what happens when the audience can’t stop talking about what you did.

Every once in a while, all three things will co-exist but odds are, you’re going to need to choose.” – Seth Godlin