ETSU Slocumb Galleries Hosts 'Resistance' Sculpture Exhibit

The juried exhibition explores the theme of resistance through diverse artistic perspectives.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Mid-South Sculpture Alliance and ETSU Slocumb Galleries have partnered to present a juried exhibition titled 'Resistance' at ETSU. Curated by interdisciplinary artist Michael Dickins, the exhibit features works that interpret the theme of resistance through various lenses, including political commentary, material experimentation, and personal narratives. The exhibition aims to foster educational discourse and provide visitors with the opportunity to form their own interpretations of the artworks.

Why it matters

As conversations about cultural expression, identity, and acceptance continue worldwide, the 'Resistance' exhibition feels especially timely and relevant. The exhibit advocates for civil discourse and highlights the importance of resistance in the face of societal challenges, encouraging visitors to consider their own agency and beliefs.

The details

The exhibition features works from a diverse group of artists, including Mexican-born, Texas-based artist Veronica Ibargüengoiti, who engraved reproductions of immigration and tax documents onto stone, and Memphis-based Asian American artist Sepideh Tajalizadeh Dashti, whose interactive installation invites visitors to draw their own identities onto fabric human silhouettes within a clear acrylic suitcase. Other featured artists include Jason Brown, Jarod Charzewski, Jack Eubanks, David Marquez, Chelsea Moulder, Janet Orselli, Melissa Sclafani, Suzanna Scott, Sarah Spillers, Durant Thompson, Kristen Tordella-Williams, and Luke Warren.

  • The 'Resistance' exhibition is currently on display at the ETSU Slocumb Galleries.
  • The exhibition will close this week with an ending reception.

The players

Mid-South Sculpture Alliance

A regional organization that has partnered with ETSU Slocumb Galleries to present the 'Resistance' exhibition.

ETSU Slocumb Galleries

The art galleries at East Tennessee State University, which are hosting the 'Resistance' exhibition.

Michael Dickins

An interdisciplinary artist who served as the curator for the 'Resistance' exhibition.

Veronica Ibargüengoiti

A Mexican-born, Texas-based artist whose work in the 'Resistance' exhibition features engraved reproductions of immigration and tax documents onto stone.

Sepideh Tajalizadeh Dashti

A Memphis-based Asian American artist whose interactive installation in the 'Resistance' exhibition invites visitors to draw their own identities onto fabric human silhouettes within a clear acrylic suitcase.

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What they’re saying

“Resistance can be viewed in various ways. People may not agree with everything, but that's part of the process. We want it to be educational and an opportunity for discourse.”

— Dr. Karlota Contreras-Koterbay, Director of ETSU Tipton and Slocumb Galleries

“Instead of y'all, I've been using the word 'we all' lately. We all are in this together. Resistance is important right now, and we will always have agency. It may not be easy. It may not be safe, but we have the ability to resist and fight for what we believe in.”

— Dr. Karlota Contreras-Koterbay, Director of ETSU Tipton and Slocumb Galleries

What’s next

The 'Resistance' exhibition will close this week with an ending reception, though a recorded curator and artist conversation will remain available on the Mid-South Sculpture Alliance's website and YouTube channel for continued viewing.

The takeaway

The 'Resistance' exhibition at ETSU Slocumb Galleries provides a thought-provoking platform for artists to explore the multifaceted concept of resistance, fostering important discussions about cultural expression, identity, and the power of civil discourse in the face of societal challenges.