The Chazen Museum of Art at the University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW–Madison) has selected artist Anne E. Stoner as the 2026 Russell and Paula Panczenko MFA Prize winner. Due to planned renovations at the Chazen Museum of Art, the Wisconsin Union Directorate Art Committee, in collaboration with the Chazen Museum of Art, proudly presents Infrastructure Bodies/Injury Systems. An Exhibition by Anne E. Stoner in the Main Gallery of Memorial Union.
In the multi-channel installation, Stoner pairs surveillance video of political events that have occurred in Midwest cities such as Chicago and Minneapolis during the past year with data sonification from that footage. She uses the pixel movements of people in the video to create audio that illustrates the volume and intensity of motion. The exhibition also incorporates the voices of people who have been injured during protests in the United States. Stoner uses directional speakers to spatially isolate the sound in the exhibition, offering visitors various experiences as they explore each area of the gallery.
From the Artist: “I would describe the current governmental climate as calculated and frightening. It is no doubt we are living in unprecedented times. This project and my work in general aim to shed light on political practices that may seem acceptable or effective on the surface, but in fact have dark and dangerous histories.”
From the Juror: “Stoner’s work is ultimately generous and affirming. By transforming surveillance footage into sound and amplifying the voices of those injured or disabled through protest, she reclaims tools often used to erase accountability. Her work reminds us that even in a hyper-monitored world, connection is still possible, and that listening carefully to one another can open space for dignity, care and collective imagination.” - Tyler Blackwell, Curator of contemporary art at the Speed Art Museum in Kentucky
Anne E. Stoner will give an artist talk about her work and the exhibition on Friday April 10, from 5:00-6:00pm in the Play Circle Theatre on the second floor of Memorial Union
An opening reception for Infrastructure Bodies/Injury Systems will be held outside of the Main Gallery of Memorial Union on April 10th from 6:00 to 7:30pm. Light refreshments will be provided!
Infrastructure Bodies/Injury Systems will be open to viewing in the Main Gallery at Memorial Union from April 10th, 2026 through May 22nd, 2026. The gallery is open from 8am - 10pm, Monday through Sunday. (with the exception of holiday/winter closures)
