At George Mason University, a unique partnership has blossomed, merging the realms of art, education, and social change. This collaboration, linking both Mason Exhibitions and the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution with the Barnes Foundation and Mural Arts Philadelphia, transcends the usual art exhibition. It's a powerful tale of resilience and the transformative role of art.
The partnership's roots trace back to Michael Smith, a faculty member at George Mason who was also studying at the Barnes Foundation. In a class there taught by William Perthes, he first saw the "Faces of Resilience" exhibition, a compelling collection of artworks by 14 previously or currently incarcerated artists. Moved by the depth and impact of these pieces, Smith saw an opportunity to bring this exhibition to a wider audience in the Mason community.
Joining forces with Dr. Patricia Maulden, a professor at the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution and William Perthes from the Barnes Foundation, Smith organized a workshop during the Carter School’s Peace Week. The enthusiastic response to this workshop set the wheels in motion for a deeper collaboration. With backing from Dean Rick Davis of the College of Visual and Performing Arts, Don Russell, Director of Mason Exhibitions, and the Barnes Foundation team, "Faces of Resilience" found a new audience from September 11 through November 3 in the Buchanan Hall Atrium Gallery on Mason’s Fairfax campus.
One of the key initiatives, a symposium on art and incarceration, emerged from this collaboration. Film screenings complemented the exhibition, educating the Mason community on incarceration-related issues and encouraging audiences to consider alternative paths to justice beyond the existing carceral system. An expanded version of the exhibition will be on view at Mason Exhibitions Arlington from January 16 through March 30, where the works of the 14 original artists will be supplemented by the works of three professional artists: Maria Gaspar, Sara Bennett, and the late Winfred Rembert (1945–2021).
A standout moment for Michael Smith was meeting the artists from the exhibition. Their personal stories added a new layer of meaning to the artwork and underscored the power of art in life transformation. This interaction also shifted his students' perspectives, helping them see beyond punitive attitudes to a more empathetic view of incarcerated individuals.
Yassmin Salem, the Programs Manager for Mason Exhibitions reflects on the collaboration, "This partnership offers students exposure to diverse perspectives on complex issues like incarceration. It exemplifies how art can be a nexus for cross-disciplinary partnerships to create change."
Don Russell elaborates on the broader impact, "Collaborating with the Barnes Collection and Mural Arts Philadelphia expands our connections and lays the groundwork for future projects. This aligns with our mission to provide a broad knowledge base about society, including cultural literacy and engagement with the visual arts."
This unique partnership is a testament to how art, education, and social advocacy can unite to broaden societal understanding of challenging topics. For students at Mason, this offers a chance to explore complex issues from different angles. It's an experience that adds depth to their understanding and fuels their passion for change.
Looking ahead, this partnership is set to continue shaping the university's narrative. By bringing the exhibition to Arlington and expanding it and with the gallery’s location so close to both Mason’s Antonin Scalia Law School and the Schar School of Policy and Government, the collaboration promises new and engaging projects. Don adds, "Prospective Mason students can anticipate on-going art exhibitions and public programs where art is experienced as a means of social transformation."
This partnership is a shining example of the university's ethos for those considering George Mason University, especially those interested in arts and social impact. It's a place where visionary thinking is nurtured, and students are encouraged to become agents of change.
"Faces of Resilience" at George Mason University is more than an exhibition. It's a story of art's power to connect, heal, and inspire, marking a proud chapter in the university's ongoing journey of innovation, creativity, and societal impact.