The title “Materials: re-invented, re-viewed” may conjure images of soda bottles fashioned into a likeness of the Mona Lisa. Natasha Nicholson’s exhibit, in fact, offers a thoughtful examination of memory and sensation. The collection is nestled within the Elvehjem Building’s Kohler Art Library, and appropriately so. It lacks the volume to stand alone in a museum, but is more powerful when displayed in its entirety. Sitting in the center of the library, it provides the opportunity to see a collection in a quiet environment with fewer people than a museum setting.

The collection is almost too minute to stand independently, even in the library. With less than twenty pieces, and only one large enough to merit a case of its own, “Materials” is minimalist, and can be appreciated in under an hour. The size of the exhibit certainly played a role in its placement in the well-suited Kohler Art Library, allowing library goers to view the gallery at their leisure, but not necessitating a trip solely for the artwork. It also produces a less lasting effect, more so than museum exhibits that often have double the content if not more.

The pieces feature normal mediums, and also a variety of objects. Focal items range from a battered metal horn, small stuffed birds and even cotton swabs. Many pieces contain precise geometric shapes as well as smooth curves, a combination of the natural and the man made. Nicholson presents such a variety of textures, both sensually and visually, that they can be felt vicariously. In her own description, Nicholson speaks of the power and importance of “magic” in her work, and captures this notion by inviting people to consider the unknown with their imagination.

In general, the materials are not truly recycled. Many of the items are old, and have been shaped not only by time but also by the Nicholson’s hands, instilling them with an intangible sense of memory. Instead of being repurposed, items have been arranged together to produce a single effect. A few pieces, for example, create abstract miniature landscapes, with items as simple as pencil shavings and wood. The lack of concrete representation, again, allows for creativity by someone other than the creator. The experience conjures images unique to each individual, instead of entirely unique to the artist.

Nicholson’s offering is unassuming both in title and location, but contains interesting pieces unified by universal ideas. It provides the opportunity to see an exhibit without having to pay a fee or deal with crowds. With the Elvehjem Building located between East Campus and Library Malls, “Materials: re-invented, re-viewed” serves as an interesting stop during any trip across campus.

“Materials: re-invented, re-viewed” in the Kohler Library will run through Oct. 31.

More can be found at their website http://art.library.wisc.edu/exhibits/