SXU Alumna Selects SXU as Recipient of Artwork
Saint Xavier University (SXU) alumna Linae Frei '58, established multi-faceted artist, has selected SXU as the recipient of her artwork. Just in time for We Are SXU Day, SXU's annual day of giving, Frei's pieces were put on display and available for purchase at the SXU Gallery for a reception honoring her as an artist, educator and visionary, with all proceeds directly supporting SXU students.
Frei, who is also a former faculty member and former chair of the Art Department, spent her time at SXU curating exhibitions, mentoring students, and creating Our Blessed Mother, the beloved sculpture located at Mary's Circle on the SXU campus. Frei's work has been acquired by public institutions and museums and is featured in numerous publications. Her long and successful career in New York and Arizona earned her awards and recognition, and it's come full circle as she donates her work to Saint Xavier.
Frei chose SXU as the recipient of her artwork because of the profound impact the institution had on her. She credits Saint Xavier for being largely responsible for her education. Though she initially had no way of going to high school, she was eventually able to make up the classes at a vocational school in the evening before she started at Saint Xavier, where she was able to take both high school and college classes at the same time, eventually earning a Bachelor of Arts. Her work at Saint Xavier inspired her to continue her education with a Master of Fine Arts from Yale University School of Art.
Frei has the ability to adapt to various materials, from painting and sculpture to mixed media and jewelry. At the hallmark of her work is diversity and a sensitivity that is uniquely hers. Frei, who has been artistic her whole life, finds that her inspiration comes from almost anything and that everything is beautiful to her.
"As far back as I can remember, I was always doing something artistic. In grade school, I would find opportunities to do extracurricular projects, like making bird images. Also, during the war, there were drawing contests for students to enter, and I usually got the prize. I've had my hands in art ever since I was little," said Frei.
Over the years, Frei has dabbled in painting, drawing, sculpting, and calligraphy, and she enjoys working with unexpected resources. Currently, she is working on making wreaths from the small medicine cups that are usually thrown away. Though her opportunities are limited because of her physical condition, she feels blessed to be able to say that she loves what she does and does what she loves.
Frei is grateful that her gift of art --the gift of what she loves-- will make a lasting impact on SXU students.
"I want all students, no matter their background, to believe in themselves, discover what they love, and follow the path that leads them there. We only have one life, and it's given to us to use for benefit of others. The more we forget ourselves, the happier we are. Follow your bliss and love it. Do what you love, and love what you do," said Frei.
On We Are SXU Day, your gift can make as big an impact, providing life-changing scholarships, creating new internship and networking opportunities, organizing mission and service trips, and designing new spaces across campus that enhance student knowledge and success. Make your gift now.