New Art Exhibits Launch at Georgetown University

News Summary

Georgetown University has unveiled two new art exhibits, ‘Hung Liu: Happy and Gay’ and ‘& Loving,’ showcasing the life of mixed-media artist Hung Liu and themed human connections through photography. Open until April 13, 2025, the exhibits invite students and local art lovers to explore deep narratives and artistic expressions.

Exciting Art Exhibits Open in Georgetown University!

The vibrant city of Georgetown is buzzing with excitement as two brand-new art exhibits roll out at the de la Cruz and Spagnuolo galleries. Both exhibits became available to the public on January 17, 2025, and are sure to capture the hearts and minds of art lovers and students alike.

Discover the Life of Hung Liu

First up is the exhibit titled “Hung Liu: Happy and Gay,” which shines a light on the life and works of the celebrated mixed-media artist, Hung Liu. Liu, who lived between San Francisco and Changchun, China, left a profound impact on the art world before her unfortunate passing in 2021. Visitors can immerse themselves in her artistic journey and the significant historical context surrounding her life in 1960s China.

This exhibit is not just about pretty pictures; it includes intriguing personal artifacts from Liu’s life. Among these treasures are her middle school English notebooks, offering a glimpse into the early experiences that shaped her artistic voice. Students had the unique opportunity to learn from Graduate student Dorothy Moss, the Director of the Hung Liu Estate, who led a seminar teaching the ins and outs of curating Liu’s remarkable work.

The title, “Happy and Gay,” first used for Liu’s 2012 show in San Francisco, reflects the impact propaganda had on her childhood, adding layers of meaning to the exhibition. Through her art, Liu explored themes of **immigration** and **critique** of Maoist ideologies while incorporating elements of vibrant American media. Student curator Rosa Manuel (GSAS ’25) played a vital role in this endeavor, focusing on the fine details of presentation and the selection of wall colors to better convey Liu’s story.

It’s important to note the historical backdrop; Mao Zedong ruled China from 1949 until his death in 1976, a period marked by severe restrictions on freedom of speech. This context enriches the experience, making it even more essential for contemporary audiences to reflect on Liu’s work. After spending four months conducting research and carefully curating artwork, students have created a truly immersive exhibit that runs until April 13, 2025.

Experience Connection with “& Loving”

Meanwhile, the Spagnuolo Gallery has launched an equally engaging photo exhibit titled “& Loving.” This collection showcases 13 selected black-and-white photographs sourced from a larger treasure trove in Lauinger Library. The theme centers around the powerful essence of human connection, exploration, and intimacy—a fitting subject matter for any art enthusiast.

Under the guidance of Professor Ian Bourland, student curators including Ella Boasberg (CAS ’25) carefully selected images that resonate emotionally and tell compelling stories. The exhibit title and concept were inspired by a quote from photographer Aaron Siskind, emphasizing how photographs can evoke profound emotional responses. The student curators forged personal connections with each photograph, making the selection process both enriching and challenging.

However, there are discussions surrounding representation, as the limited pool of donated photographs highlighted concerns about diversity in the showcased works. The gallery director, Jaynelle Hazard, has plans to curate her first exhibit in Fall 2025, focusing specifically on diverse artists and varying artistic mediums—a step toward inclusivity.

As the Georgetown art scene flourishes with these fascinating exhibits, it is a fantastic opportunity for both students and locals to dive deep into unique narratives and artistic expression. The art world, after all, thrives on not just visuals but on stories and connections that resonate across cultures and experiences. Make sure to check out these exciting exhibits before they come to a close!

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Additional Resources

• The Hoya: GU Art Galleries Open
• Google Search: Hung Liu
• The Washington Post: Hung Liu Exhibit
• Wikipedia: Mao Zedong
• The Georgetown Voice: Student Curators
• Google Scholar: Art Curation
• Georgetown DC: Art Walk
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hung Liu
• Community Impact: Vera Gallery
• Google News: Georgetown University Art Gallery