How Lucky We Are by Lila Hudgins

Lila Hudgins, a History of Art major, created this painting inspired by a DJ set put on by the musicians HLWA (pronounced “hallway”) at Joe’s Pizza last year. The vivid sunset-esque color scheme conveys a warm and inviting feel to viewers. The multiple hands demonstrate how all the moving parts in a live music set come together to make something beautiful as the artists get focused in on the groove.

I love how the seemingly contrasting elements of rounded and sharp angles become cohesive as they emphasize the dynamic movement in the painting. In the background of the painting you can make out the iconic Joe’s marquee and human figures dancing all around the painting. All of these elements come together to convey the community that comes from music, especially live music. 

This piece was featured in the My Corner of Campus Exhibition, which was in the Michigan Union from July 1 to September 18.