The COVID-19 pandemic has taken the world by storm, which has given organizations like UA of Little Rock a new outlet to entertain. The UA Little Rock Department of Art and Design is hosting a free virtual art exhibition. The free online art exhibition, “Being Seen: Power through Diversity” is available for everyone until Sept. 20, 2020. This art exhibition showcases talented artists from around the world, allowing people to explore art they’ve never seen before.
UA Little Rock gallery director, Brad Cushman’s, vision for “Being Seen: Power through Diversity” virtual art exhibition is multicultural and unorthodox. The eight month long virtual event displays artwork from different backgrounds and cultures, such as African-American, Latin, European, Asian, LGBT, and much more.
“Being Seen: Power through Diversity, promotes learning about and celebrating the barriers that cause us to demonize others,” Cushman said.
The “Black America” gallery section showcases artwork from Arkansas, Texas, Georgia and Brazil. Each artwork has a special meaning. One of the standouts in the section is “Standing in the Night” by a well-known artist, Delita Martin. The “Latin X” gallery section features artists from Mexico and Texas. The “Carolina” glass sculpture by two unique artists, Einar and Jamex de la Torre, capturrd attention instantly. The only European art piece is “Kids Are Terrible People Too,” which is by artist, Anais Desse. Interestingly, Desse traveled from France and is currently residing in Arkansas.
The “Southwestern and South East Asia” art gallery section showcases artwork from Iraq, Pakistan, China, and Vietnamese. Artist Phan Thanh Minh, oil canvas “Crown of People” is bold and has character even though it’s an art piece. The “Gender and LGBT Identity” art gallery section showcases artwork that celebrates and encourages people in the LGBT community. The “Functional Objects” gallery section displays creative antiques that can be used as decor in college dorms, homes, and in the office. Molly Murphy’s “Tulip Reticule” artwork led me to her website. If you’re looking for decor or clothing, you can visit Murphy’s website, which is Mollymurphyadams.com.
Brad Cushman’s virtual art exhibition is a moment for UA of Little Rock students and faculty to escape reality during the global pandemic. Moreover, “Being Seen: Power through Diversity” virtual art exhibit is a safe outlet for anyone seeking indoor entertainment. Also, if you’re an aspiring artist or curator, the UA Little Rock Department of Art and Design is the best place to display your content for the world to see. The process is easy, you can just simply submit your art exhibit proposals through email or by phone. Contact Cushman at becushman@ualr.edu or 501-916-5103.
