Madison Hayes

Madison Hayes-2021 Bess Ward Thesis Award
MADISON HAYES

Thesis:  The Invasiveness of Plastic Consumption 

Thesis Director:  Dr. Elizabeth DiDonna, Department of Art

"During my junior year at FSU, I was introduced to the idea of pursuing an Honors in the Major thesis for the College of Fine Arts. I was very surprised by how few people, specifically within the Department of Art, participated in this opportunity. I was intrigued by the idea of independently creating an art piece that would combine my artistic interests with a research component that allowed me to further broaden my understanding of plastic in our environment, which led to a full investigation on how much plastic we consume on a daily basis. My interest in plastics emerged after having the opportunity to experience cultures outside of the United States; it had become evident how reliant American society is accustomed to the mass consumption of single-use plastics. Though plastic has always served as a centerpiece for my artistic practice, in order to execute my vision, I could not do it alone. The materials required to create pieces can be extremely limited and inaccessible as a studio art student, especially to conduct trials. I was able to learn and practice latch hooking in a way that launched my art and research skills to the next level. By the generosity from donors for the Bess H. Ward Thesis Award, I was able to further investigate different mediums related to my practice and explore deeper into my research than I would have otherwise on my own."

-Madison Hayes, 2021 Bess H. Ward Thesis Award Winner