Nocturne

Perched gracefully atop a gentle rise to the southwest of the Parren J. Mitchell Art-Sociology Building stands "Nocturne," a steel sculpture crafted by the late and talented artist, Andrew Dunnill (1967-2016). Dunnill earned his Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Maryland in 1991, leaving an indelible mark on the world of art. He went on to become a distinguished Professor and the head of the sculpture program at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro, where he passionately shared his artistic wisdom from 1993 until his untimely passing in January 2016. 

This remarkable sculpture, once a prominent feature of a grand exhibition at the University of Maryland Art Gallery, was generously gifted to the UMD Art Department by Andrew Dunnill's family. The department collaborated closely with Taras W. Matla, the Director of the Art Gallery, to incorporate this magnificent piece into the University's esteemed art collection. 

Reflecting on Dunnill's legacy, W.C. Richardson, former Professor and Chair of the Department of Art, fondly recalls, "Andy was one of the finest graduate students our program has ever produced. While we mourn his premature departure, we take immense pride in housing such a vibrant and dynamic sculpture on our grounds, a testament to his enduring impact."

More information on his work can be found here:

• https://www.canwoodgallery.com/andrew-dunnill-bloom-bellow/
• https://davidboraks.net/2016/02/03/sculptor-andy-dunnill-dies-created-bouquet-for-davidson/