Sign Fest 2025 features three events
Deaf artist Bridget Barrigan. (Courtesy photo)
Three events will be offered to the public for the Ninth Annual Sign Fest at Casper College. Artists featured include Bridget Berrigan, Matthew “Magic” Morgan, and Liliana.
On Wednesday, Feb. 19, at 6:30 p.m., in the Walter H. Nolte Gateway Center, Room 225, Berrigan will talk on “Art Signs — Understanding Deaf Culture Through My Work.” Berrigan was born and raised chiefly and lives in the Maryland and Washington, D.C. metro areas. “Bridget is eager to come out to Casper where she has the opportunity to share her skill, experience, love, and pride for who she is as a Deaf artist,” said Harvey Nathanson, American Sign Language instructor.
Berrigan will share insights on her creative process, the importance of art in Deaf culture, and how artistic expression can serve as a bridge between communities. She will talk about how Deaf culture is embedded in her work. “She looks forward to meeting all kinds of attendees, hearing signers and Deaf comrades alike,” noted Nathanson.
On Friday, Feb. 21, the “Hands On – Deaf Artist Make and Take Workshop” with Berrigan will take place from 8-10 a.m. in the Dick and Marialyce Tobin Visual Arts Center, Room 104. Berrigan will share her talent and passion as she encourages participants to explore their own journey into art. The workshop is free to the public through generous support from the Board of Cooperative Educational Services. All materials and supplies will be provided. Space is limited, and preregistration by Tuesday, Feb. 18, is required by emailing Nathanson at harvey.nathanson@caspercollege/edu.
In addition, entertainment will be provided Friday night beginning at 6:30. Magician Matthew “Magic” Morgan and Liliana will present a family-friendly magic show titled “Illusion Into the Deaf World” in the Wheeler Concert Hall.
The two will perform eye-popping illusions, stunts with live animals, and seemingly impossible tricks in an unusual and incredible display of magic. “Come and be amazed as this husband and wife act combines magic, miming, and comedy while communicating in the universal language of fun,” said Nathanson.
All events are free and open to the public, and each will have an interpreter for hearing guests. The Casper College Foundation Board, BOCES, the Casper College ASL Club Activities Committee, and the Natrona County Board of Recreation Joint Powers Board sponsor Sign Fest.
The Nolte Gateway Center, Tobin Visual Arts Center, and Music Building are on the Casper College Campus.