'How We Gather'

The group exhibition How We Gather investigates the notion and enactment of solidarity across various contemporary artists’ practices through the lens of the pandemic. The state of emergency brought on by COVID-19 both magnified existing structures of precarity and inequity, while also strengthening social bonds. In the words of writer, activist, and artist Johanna Hedva, as a society we witnessed “what happens when care insists on itself, when the care of others becomes mandatory, when it takes up space and money and labor and energy.” The failures, shocks, and losses brought on by the pandemic revealed a deficit of care in numerous realms, inspiring many artists, activists, and theorists to reevaluate how their work can generate a greater responsibility to a collective body—a stronger sense of unity, collaboration, and mutuality. From conversations on “solidarity economics” to attempts to build “solidarity infrastructures,” this exhibition takes stock of what solidarity in the arts means today.

Participating Artists:
Zarouhie Abdalian, Adelita Husni-Bey, Pia Camil, Cog•nate Collective, Kimi Hanauer, Susan Jahoda and Caroline Woolard, Elana Mann, noé olivas, Nina Sarnelle and Selwa Sweidan, Alice Yuan Zhang

Opening reception:
Find event details for the Oct. 7 2-6 p.m. reception here:

For more information visit: mandevilleartgallery.ucsd.edu