The Wichita Falls Museum of Art hosted a “Poets, Painters, and Paper” exhibition Sept. 23. After a brief introduction of the museum,museum director, Francine Carraro introduced the students and faculty members to the host of the exhibition, assistant English professor Todd Giles.

Giles explained post-World War II American poetry and art work.

“This was a time of McCarthyism scare, suburban sprawl, and the prospect of a nuclear holocaust,”  Giles said.

Giles further explained this time period, explaining that the post-World War II era lead to “Isolationism and neoconservatism.”

Giles further explains that many poets wrote in protest against the American military industrial complex and raised awareness of post-war anxieties. Giles also read some of those poets’ works.

“All of these poets were working around the same time,” Giles said.

“Many poets and artist at this time called into question nationalism, Americanism, communism, Isolationism, and all the other isms,” Giles said.

A master’s student, Ali Ward, read “Why I Am Not A Painter” by Frank O’Hara to those in attendance.

Ward said the exhibit was “surreal, incredible to speak with a jazz band playing.”

Rachel Ross, graphics design sophomore, said, “I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I’m a fan of poetry and I knew it was going to be from the post-World War II time period but I never expected so much poetry. I enjoyed Dr. Gile’s spoken work, I feel that there are many routes you can take when working with literature. His way of analyzing was interesting.” The exhibition ended with students and tourists continuing their tour around the museum.

Giles said the exhibit “blows me away.”

“It’s just absolutely beautiful,” Giles said.

The exhibition is open until Nov. 5.

OTHER STORIES: MSU exhibit spotlights post World War II poetry, art