"American Contradictions" Exhibition Opening
Date: 8/28/2025 6:00 PM - 8/28/2025 8:00 PM
About the Exhibition Opening
Preview American Contradictions: A Boise Visual Chronicle Exhibition on Thursday, August 28, from 6-8 p.m. at the Erma Hayman House (617 Ash St., Boise). Explore the works on display, chat with the artists, and enjoy light refreshments from Whitney Fredin Catering.
About American Contradictions: A Boise Visual Chronicle Exhibition
America’s founding was a revolutionary experiment — the creation of a new nation striving for Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.
At the heart of this ongoing experiment is a persistent tension. Many of America’s core values are inherently contradictory, and we continue to struggle to find a balance that will deliver on the promise of a more perfect union.
In Boise, those contradictions may feel especially vivid, along with the chance to make a difference; this is a prospect that can inspire as much as it intimidates. Ultimately, the "American Experiment" lives in the hands of its people.
Artists, too, play a role. Local creatives use their work to shift perspectives, explore bold ideas, and challenge norms, making a tangible impact on our community and contributing to the ever-evolving American story.
American Contradictions aligns with and supports the City of Boise’s commemoration and celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Participating artists reflected on the contradictions within American values and interpret the “American Experiment” through the lens of life in Boise today.
The exhibition fulfills the 2025 Boise Visual Chronicle (BVC), a biennial commission of portable artworks for the City of Boise’s public art collection. Initiated in 1996, the BVC is a city-owned collection that captures life and culture in Boise. Together, these works offer a compelling visual record of the city’s changing landscapes, people, and perspectives, forming a unique portrait of artistic vitality in our region.
This year, a community panel of Boise residents developed the exhibition’s theme and after a public call, selected eight artists to participate. One artwork received a purchase award and will be added to the BVC collection. Three additional works are recognized with first, second, and third place jury awards.
Many of these artworks are available for purchase. Please speak with an Arts & History staff member for assistance.
Featured artists include Anne Peterson, Devon Smith, Grace McJack, Heather Whitt, Kirsten Furlong, Margaret Pope, Mongina Cole, and Samantha Archide.
Image: Children of Tomorrow (2025) by Devon Smith
Accommodations
In our commitment to engaging everyone, the City of Boise is actively removing barriers to participation, including for our residents with disabilities and those who prefer a language other than English. If you need an accommodation to access City of Boise’s services, programs, or activities, please contact us at artsandhistory@cityofboise.org or 208-608-7050 (TTY 800-377-3529).
En nuestro compromiso por lograr la participación de todos, la Ciudad de Boise está eliminando activamente las barreras a la participación, incluso para nuestros residentes con discapacidades y aquellos que prefieren un idioma distinto del inglés. Si necesita una adaptación para acceder a los servicios, programas o actividades de la Ciudad de Boise, póngase en contacto con nosotros en artsandhistory@cityofboise.org or 208-608-7050 (TTY 800-377-3529).
