‘Oppositions’ Gallery Exhibit Invites Political Reflection

Evan Haase, “Old Glory,” 2015. (Courtesy of the Jackson Junge Gallery)Evan Haase, “Old Glory,” 2015. (Courtesy of the Jackson Junge Gallery)

The U.S. flag is on display this month at a gallery in Wicker Park, but it’s not part of a show about patriotism.

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Or is it?

Curators of “Oppositions” at the Jackson Junge Gallery wanted to highlight political issues without taking sides.

That’s where the flag comes in. Evan Haase’s “Old Glory” is made from more than 15,000 bullet casings – an overt reference to guns in a city rife with shootings.

But the 40 works of art on display – including “Old Glory” – are open to interpretation.

“I didn’t want it to be a political, Trump-bashing show,” said Chris Jackson, the gallery’s owner and director. “There’s a lot of point of views that should be explored, so it was very important for me to keep it open.”

Mixed media, sculptures and paintings from local and national artists delve into issues of race, identity and social justice.

  • Luna Rail, “For the Prettiest One.” (Courtesy of Jackson Junge Gallery)

    Luna Rail, “For the Prettiest One.” (Courtesy of Jackson Junge Gallery)

  • Eoin Cullen, “True Colors.” (Courtesy of Jackson Junge Gallery)

    Eoin Cullen, “True Colors.” (Courtesy of Jackson Junge Gallery)

The sculpture “True Colors” depicts a faceless African-American woman with a large afro, while the mixed-media piece “For the Prettiest One” is inspired by Discordia, the Greek goddess of discord and confusion.   

Jackson said that art’s inherent ability to push perspectives serves an instrumental role in times of political divisiveness.

“It’s important for art to get involved, it makes people see things a little bit differently,” Jackson said.

“Oppositions” is free to the public and on display through April 31 at the Jackson Junge Gallery


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