The Honeycomb Project, curated by Candace Garlock, an art professor at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC), is a large-scale community art initiative inspired by the natural structure of honeycombs. This project celebrates collective effort and creativity through art. "The Honeycomb Project reflects our connections to one another through our environment and shared spaces," said Garlock.
In 2024, Garlock invited artists from the region west of the Rocky Mountains to participate in this project. The goal was to collect at least 1,000 panel contributions, each showcasing the artist's interpretation of human relationships with the world. Artists could submit up to six hexagonal wood panels focusing on themes such as environment and landscape.
During TMCC's Earth Day celebrations in April, a workshop led by Garlock allowed faculty, staff, students, and community members to create their own honeycomb pieces using Gelli Printing techniques. Anne Flesher, Dean of Computer, Math and Physical Sciences at TMCC, participated with her son Cedar. She recounted his experience: “I felt happy. It felt like everything fit together, and little things can add up to one big thing.”
Garlock noted that the Gelli printing process was "magical and enjoyable," appealing to people of all ages. Professor Micaela Rubalcava also took part in the workshop and described it as a moment of "intergenerational interconnectedness." She added that collaborative art helps her process personal anxieties through love and co-creation.
The Honeycomb Project includes a traveling exhibition running until early 2028 and an ongoing blog featuring artist statements and biographies. Volume 1 of The Honeycomb Project is now available, highlighting works from regional creators as well as TMCC students.
As this initiative grows, it demonstrates how art can connect people across different generations and backgrounds. Each new contribution enriches the mosaic with diverse voices from various communities.
For more information about The Honeycomb Project or participation details, visit the TMCC Arts/Fine Arts webpage or contact their Visual and Performing Arts Department.