‘Beyond All Repair’ Exhibit Rooted in Alumna’s Poem About the Effects of War

The Gumberg Library will host Beyond All Repair: Language and Vision, an exhibit featuring FUBAR, a limited edition artist book, and related materials that illustrate art and poetry as vehicles for discussing the effects of war on individuals. The exhibit opens Tuesday, Sept. 27, and will be on display in the Popular Reading Room of the Gumberg Library through Friday, Nov. 11, during the library’s operating hours.

An artist book is a form of artistic expression that uses the form or function of a book as inspiration. FUBAR is based on a poem by Duquesne University alumna J. C. Todd, A’65, and artist MaryAnn L. Miller is the printmaker, designer and binder of the piece. The interactive book focuses on the shared combat experience between an Air Force medic and her patient through a sonnet and imagery created by Todd and Miller.

“With so many veterans and military members of our families and circles of friends, a book like FUBAR is a stark reminder of the very real effects of war on the people we love,” said University Librarian Dr. Sara Baron. “It offers a way to think about how we connect with others with compassion and love, no matter what the situation.”

Both Todd and Miller will be on-site for the exhibit opening at 4 p.m. on Sept. 27. In addition, they’re scheduled to visit several classes and open events on Sept. 27 and Wednesday, Sept. 28. The two will return to campus for Gumberg Library events during Veteran’s Week in November.

“It’s always special for students to have a chance to meet working writers, to learn not only about what inspires them but about what the work itself is like,” said English Department Chair Dr. Greg Barnhisel. “But when a poet as eminent as J.C. Todd comes—and is accompanied by a book artist as talented as Mary Ann Miller—it’s a unique opportunity for all of us, students and faculty, staff and alumni.”

Beyond All Repair: Language and Vision is free and open to the public. Faculty and staff are asked to RSVP to the Sept. 27 reception.