UC hosts paper personalities

If the windows of the second-floor University Center study lounge weren’t cluttered by ASUM campaign ads, passersby could catch a glimpse of the Whack family.

Crafted from paper-maché by University of Montana art instructor Bobby Tilton and his students, the Whacks embody the American dream – from the box-wearing, beer-gutted father to the pregnant teenage daughter to the crippled vet in the wheel chair, all gathered in front of a TV screen.

Nancy Rishoff, a student in the class, said it took two students to construct each family member. Carl, the father, required three.

UC Program Manager Molly Collins said she sees the Whack family’s presence as a much welcomed addition to the UC community.

“It’s a display where you can actually walk around and physically touch them,” Collins said. “I think people really like it.”

Although the paper-maché family seems content among studying and tired students, Rishoff said they’re available for adoption.

“I can see him (Carl) on somebody’s front porch all summer long just chilling,” Rishoff said. “Just take them and give them a nice home.”

Members of the Whack family can be adopted free of charge. For adoption information, contact: nancy.rishoff@umontana.edu .