Weinberg/Newton Gallery, a non-commercial gallery dedicated to promoting social- justice causes, is partnering with the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois to present All that Glows in the Dark of Democracy, July 29 Oct. 1 at Weinger/Newton Gallery, 688 N. Milwaukee Ave.
The exhibit will feature artworks that present a range of perspectives on democracy as a concept both in theory and in practice. Rather than presuming a universal definition of the term democracy, these artists offer entry points into a dialogue via various media and modes of sensory engagement. Interactive installations, sculpture and video, including newly commissioned site-specific works, invite viewers to think critically about elections, monuments, public and private space, and national symbols. Interactive installations include:
A large-scale gabled roof structure with sound-dampening fabric to create a space hospitable to listening and dialogue
Four glow in the dark voting polls stationed with neon and black light for visitors to submit "unofficial" ballets and tallies
A performative sculpture of a raised platform with a megaphone for visitors to speak through as a utilitarian object
A large-scale lavender flag installation made of satin, reimagining the American flag to commemorate the LGBTQ+ community.
The exhibition will kick off the ACLU of Illinois's 2022 Engagement Series on Democracy titled "We the People" and will feature artworks that present a range of perspectives on democracy as a concept both in theory and in practice.
Exhibitions are free and open to the public. Reservations are encouraged and can be made via Tock, here. Small educational groups and classes are welcome for guided tours which are available upon request.
Gallery Hours: Thursday & Friday: 1-5pm, Saturday: 12-4pm
More information regarding Weinberg/Newton Gallery's visitor policies, appointment scheduling, current COVID-19 precautions and safety protocol can be found here.
Weinberg/Newton Gallery
Weinberg/Newton Gallery is a non-commercial gallery with a mission to collaborate with nonprofit organizations and artists to educate and engage the public on social justice issues. Through artwork and programming, the gallery provides a vital space for open discourse on critical contemporary issues facing our communities. Connecting artists with social justice organizations, we work to drive change and cultivate a culture of consciousness.
About ACLU of Illinois
The American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois has been the principal protector of constitutional rights in the state since its founding in 1926. It is a non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the liberties guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution, the state Constitution, and state/federal human rights laws. The ACLU accomplishes its goals through litigating, lobbying, and engaging the public on a broad array of civil liberties issues. Key issue areas include: women's and reproductive rights; LGBTQ rights; institutional and corrections reform; criminal law reform and racial justice; general civil liberties, including First Amendment and immigrants' rights; and policy and advocacy reform.